Postdoctoral Researcher

23502BR

Chemistry

Position Overview

Postdoctoral Fellow BNG/NIH Sponsored Project

This is a split appointment between two funded grant projects. (1) Bionano Genomics (50%) – The successful candidate will be working on a DNA sequencing project that involves nanotechnology. The technology platform uses an exonuclease time-of-flight (X-ToF) for the sequencing, which involves a sequencing by subtraction method. Specifically, the candidate will be working on optimizing the loading of single DNA molecules into the device, immobilizing an exonuclease to the pillared reactor of the X-ToF, and sequencing target DNA molecules. (2) NIH-funded project on developing a platform for the label-free detection of mRNAs that can be secured from exosomes and used for the molecular subtyping of breast cancer patients. In this project, the successful candidate will be labeling single mRNA molecules with reporters, which consist of a uniquely patterned location of streptavidin:biotin complexes, measuring the identity of the mRNA reporters via resistive pulse sensing, and assembles nanofluidic devices for RPS measurements. 

Job Description

50%– Uses techniques of MEMS and NEMS to facilitate the design and fabrication of devices. Uses thorough knowledge of tools, materials, and techniques associated with sensor fabrication, assembly, and testing. Preparation of samples and handling of DNA and mRNA is required as well as characterization of those samples, for example using resistive pulse sensing. Designs experimental procedures and standardizes operations. Documents research progress.
25%– Confer with faculty members, research associates, and graduate students on the design, modification, and construction of nanostructures for RPS and executes operations required to realize the fabrication of devices as well as their operation for both applications.
25%– Trains, supervises, and mentors graduate and undergraduate students in the use of the equipment and laboratory tools. Perform data analysis, summarizes data for the supervisor in a timely matter and writes peer-reviewed manuscripts.  

Position Requirements

Work in a cleanroom under lighting conditions to accommodate resist processing.

Work in BSL-2 environment and handle biological molecules, such as DNA/RNA

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in any of the following disciplines: biological science, biomedical engineering, or chemistry.

Preferred Qualifications

Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others.

Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Sequencing of DNA and mRNA expression analysis.

Experience training students and staff.

Familiarity with micro/nano fabrication and cleanroom operation.

Additional Candidate Instruction

Candidates are invited to submit a letter of application detailing their relevant background and research experiences, a resume, and a list of names and email addresses for three professional references.

Review of applications begins on October 03, 2022 and will continue until a qualified applicant pool has been identified. Please apply by this date for priority consideration.

Advertised Salary Range

Anticipated salary will start at ~$53,500 annually with the exact level dependent on the applicant’s experience

Application Review Begins

03-Oct-2022

Anticipated Start Date

17-Oct-2022

Limited Term End Date

13-Oct-2023

Primary Campus

University of Kansas Lawrence Campus

Employee Class

U-Unclassified Professional Staff

Work Schedule

9 am -5 pm, 40 h/week

Conditions of Employment

Contingent on Funding, Limited Term

Work Location Assignment

On-Site

Disclaimer

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university’s programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and are the Title IX coordinators for their respective campuses: Director of the Office of Civil Rights & Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY (for the Lawrence, Edwards, Parsons, Yoder, and Topeka campuses); Director, Equal Opportunity Office, Mail Stop 7004, 4330 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Fairway, KS 66205, 913-588-8011, 711 TTY (for the Wichita, Salina, and Kansas City, Kansas medical center campuses).