Postdoctoral Research Associate

In Carnegie Mellon University's Department of Mechanical Engineering (MechE), faculty members, researchers, and students are revolutionizing focus areas in advanced manufacturing, bioengineering, computational engineering, energy and the environment, product design, and robotics. In addition, they are using their expertise in interdisciplinary research centers across the university.

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Taylor Lab in Mechanical Engineering. In this role, you will carry out advanced independent and/or directed research to achieve the objectives of the research project. This position will require an in depth knowledge of a specialized field, process, subject area and may involve coordinating and implementing sophisticated research plans, the development of methods of research, testing and data collection, analysis and evaluation, and writing reports which contain descriptive, analytical and evaluative content. You will acquire the professional skills needed to pursue a career path of your choosing. The candidate will be able to design and synthesize DNA origami nanostructures for targeted gene delivery applications and such other tasks that are assigned to you.

The Microsystems and Mechanobiology research laboratory of Professor Taylor, is a highly collaborative and enthusiastic group, dedicated to the development of micro and nanoscale mechanical systems. This innovative research laboratory is developing DNA nanotechnologies for applications in cellular communications, mechanosensing, nanorobotics and targeted delivery.

Core responsibilities include:

• Design, synthesize and characterize a variety of nanostructures or use in studies of cellular uptake and gene expression.
  
  
• Perform initial cell culture studies to screen designs for effective delivery.
  
  
• Collaborate effectively to provide nanostructures to team who will perform in vitro characterization using primary cells.
  
  
• Coordinate activities of graduate student team and collaborators in order to meet regular goals for deliverables.
  
  
• Communicate findings in weekly meetings, at conferences, and in journal publications.
  
  
• Oversee cell culture space to ensure that supplies are on hand and equipment service is up to date.
  
  
• As needed, train junior lab members in essential research skills such as the design, synthesis and analytical techniques used for DNA origami as well as cell culture.
  
  
• Mentor junior lab members in effective research practices.
  
  
• Prepare regular grant update reports.
  
  
• Assist with grant proposal preparation.
  
  
• Other duties as assigned
  
  

Qualifications:

• Doctorate degree required. Ph.D. in any relevant STEM field such as Bioengineering, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics is preferred.
  
  
• Experience with cellular bioengineering and/or DNA nanotechnology is required.
  
  
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and a passion for research are required.
  
  
• Must possess an eagerness to learn new techniques and lead projects independently.
  
  

Are you interested in this opportunity? Please apply!

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Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Pre/Post-Doctoral Associates & Fellows

Position Type

Postdoctoral Associate / Fellow (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Salary

More Information:

• Please visit “ Why Carnegie Mellon ” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
  
  
• Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
  
  
• Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran .
  
  
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