Postdoctoral Research Associate - College of Engineering - Mechanical Engineering

Carnegie Mellon University • Pittsburgh, PA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Carnegie Mellon University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work in the applied nanotechnology lab. The position supports the development and execution of research projects involving the production and characterization of multivalent DNA origami nanosensors. The associate analyzes collected data, summarizes experimental results, and performs other assigned tasks.

The role involves leading laboratory activities related to nucleic acid nanotechnology, designing and validating molecular sensing circuits, and conducting experiments in BSL2 laboratory space. The associate also performs quantitative analyses, creates data-rich visualizations, develops standard operating procedures for critical activities, and trains lab members. The position calls for multidisciplinary research, strong communication, and the ability to learn new techniques and lead projects independently.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Engineering, Computational Biology, Biophysics, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related field.
• Laboratory expertise in DNA nanotechnology and/or molecular programming.
• Demonstrated ability to perform multidisciplinary research.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and a passion for research.
• Eagerness to learn new techniques and lead projects independently.
• A combination of education and relevant experience demonstrating comparable knowledge may be considered.

Nice To Haves

• Strong skills in analytical chemistry.

Responsibilities

• Lead laboratory activities related to cloning and/or synthesis of nucleic acid nanotechnology.
• Design and validate the performance of molecular sensing circuits.
• Design and carry out experiments in BSL2 laboratory space.
• Perform quantitative analyses and generate data-rich visualizations from data.
• Develop SOPs for critical activities and train lab members in their performance.
• Analyze collected data and summarize experimental results.
• Perform other tasks as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Tuition benefits.
• Paid time off and observed holidays.
• Life, accidental death, and disability insurance.
• Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass.
• Family Concierge Team assistance with childcare needs.
• Fitness center access.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree