Open Rank - Postdoctoral/Research Associate Position in Membrane Biophysics

The Physics Department at Virginia Tech invites applications for a postdoctoral associate or research associate position (commensurate with experience) in experimental biophysics, with focus on curvature-induced remodeling, domain formation, and protein recruitment in biomimetic cell membranes. The research involves design, preparation, and characterization of biomembranes supported onto nanostructured hydrogels. Candidates should have expertise in fluorescence microscopy and/or single particle tracking in biological or soft matter systems. Additional experience in cell/lipid membrane biophysics and other characterization techniques (e.g., DSC, AFM, X-ray/neutron scattering) is desirable, but not a prerequisite. Other requirements include the ability to work independently, as well as part of a team, strong communication skills, and a high degree of motivation and creativity.

The project will be conducted with Prof. Rana Ashkar and her research group at Virginia Tech. This project is funded by a recently awarded NSF grant. There will be plenty of opportunities for collaboration with other members of the group and with some of the leading experimental and theoretical groups in membrane biophysics. Postdoctoral Associate or Research Associate will conduct experimental research in membrane biophysics with a focus on supported, topographically modulated lipid membranes. Other responsibilities include communicating results in journal publications and conferences as well as mentoring junior members of the group. Research associates will have additional responsibilities with potentially assisting the PIs with group management and student mentoring.

- (For postdoctoral associate rank) Ph.D. in physics, biophysics, physical chemistry, or a closely related field. PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.
- (For research associate rank) Advanced degree in physics, biophysics, physical chemistry, or a closely related field.
- Experience in fluorescence microscopy/spectroscopy on biological systems or soft
materials.
- Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team, strong communication skills, and a high degree of motivation and creativity.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate research results in peer-reviewed publications.

- Experience in lipid membrane biophysics including membrane design, preparation, and characterization.
- Experience in Biological Physics research.

Restricted

Commensurate with experience

01/15/2023

Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae (including a list of publications), a statement of research experience and interests (not to exceed 2 pages), and a list of at least 3 professional references including their email addresses. Materials should be submitted through Virginia Tech’s application portal at link here. References will be contacted directly for a recommendation letter during the application review process.  

Review of applications will begin on Jan. 15, 2023 and will continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is February-March 2023. For questions, please contact the Physics Department (540-231-7566) or Prof. Rana Ashkar (ashkar@vt.edu).

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.