Postdoctoral Research Assistant (DNA Nanotechnology/Biosensing/Materials Science)
Ref: QMUL11554
A Postdoctoral Research Assistant position is available in the Department of Chemistry of the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences (SBCS) at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL). The researcher will be working under the supervision of Dr Matteo Palma (Dept. of Chemistry, QMUL) and in collaboration with Dr Jorge L. Chavez from the Human Performance Wing US Air Force Research Laboratory. The project is centred on the use of DNA nanostructures and nanopatterning/fabrication strategies to develop novel biosensing platforms based on single-molecule interfaces. This will allow ultrahigh sensitive biosensing and structural/conformational studies of target-analyte interactions, with single-molecule resolution.
As a member of the prestigious Russell Group, QMUL is one of UK’s leading research-focused higher education institutions, where multidisciplinary research is carried out at the highest level. Access to fume-hoods and appropriate bench space as well as all the standard (bio)chemistry equipment will be available in the state-of-the-art Joseph Priestley chemistry building, where the post-doc will be located. In addition, the Palma laboratory has recently purchased a Scanning Probe Microscopy set-up (Bruker dimension icon), and has further access at QMUL to Focused Ion-Beam (FEI quanta), SEM and TEM.
The primary goal of the project is to combine nano-fabrication, DNA nanostructure engineering, and molecular-specific aptamer identification to develop ultrahigh sensitive (optical) biosensing platforms and perform structural/conformational studies of target-analyte interactions, with single-molecule resolution. The successful candidate will have a PhD or equivalent in chemistry, physics, engineering or other relevant discipline. The candidate will have experience in materials science research and biological/biosensing investigations, with an established track record of success in high-quality original research. Applicants should have a solid grounding in different aspects of materials science research, from basic wet-chemistry skills, to experience with scanning probe microscopy, nanofabrication/nanopatterning, and fluorescence microscopy. Additionally, candidates would ideally have experience in DNA nanostructure assembly, and in optical biosensing studies. Candidates without a background in any of the aforementioned skills will be expected to demonstrate a keen interest to learn the techniques. During the project, the PDRA will have the opportunity to develop their supervision, writing, communication and organisational skills. Duties may also include assisting in the training and supervision of PhD and final year project students.
The position is full time and available for 3 years, with a start date of 1st September 2017. The starting salary will be £34,183 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance. Benefits include 30 days annual leave, defined benefit pension scheme and interest-free season ticket loan.
Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. Where required this may include entry clearance or continued leave to remain under the Points Based Immigration Scheme.
For further information about the Palma laboratory please see
http://webspace.qmul.ac.uk/mpalma. Details about the School can be found at:
http://www.sbcs.qmul.ac.ukInformal enquiries are encouraged; please contact Dr Palma via email
[email protected]To apply, please visit the Human Resources website on
http://www.jobs.qmul.ac.uk and search for reference QMUL11554. Applicants should include a cover letter and CV
Enquiries about the application process should be directed to
[email protected]The closing date for applications is June 15th June 2017. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.
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