Postdoc position – Optical Manipulation in Biophysics

We invite applications for a postdoctoral research position at Chalmers University of Technology in the evolving field of cellular nanomotion research. The position emphasizes hands-on experience with advanced optical manipulation techniques and offers a genuine opportunity to influence the direction of ongoing research. By joining our team, you’ll contribute to a deeper understanding of cellular dynamics, which holds potential for practical applications in medicine and drug development.

Information about the department and division
At the Department of Physics, within the Division of Nano and Biophysics, our primary mission is to deeply explore the physics that governs nanoscopic and biomolecular structures. We aim to understand their interactions with various external stimuli, including electrons, neutrons, and photons. With its interdisciplinary approach, our research frequently intersects with practical applications, particularly in drug development and medicine.

Information about the research
Cellular nanomotions refer to the nanoscale vibrations generated by single cells because of their internal processes, including metabolic activity, cytoskeletal rearrangements, and interactions with other cells or the substrate. These nanomotions have demonstrated a strong correlation with cell viability and overall cellular health. As a result, they hold significant potential for the development of novel diagnostic tools, personalized treatments, and therapies targeting cellular process abnormalities.

However, progress in the field of cellular nanomotion research is impeded by the absence of detection techniques that offer sufficient resolution, sensitivity, and speed. This limitation has created a knowledge gap regarding the underlying mechanisms and origins of cellular nanomotion and their relationship with specific pathologies. To advance our understanding in this area, it is crucial to develop detection methods that can accurately capture and analyze the nanomotions with high precision, sensitivity, and temporal resolution.

The objective of this project is to improve our capacity to detect cellular nanomotions by utilizing optically driven nanomotors as nanosensors. Through the detection and analysis of nanoscale movements within cells, we aim to obtain valuable insights into fundamental cellular processes, including cell metabolism and division, enhance our understanding of cellular dynamics, mechanical properties of cellular membranes and contribute to advancements in the field of biophysical research.

Major responsibilities
In this role, you will play a pivotal role in advancing experimental research in single-cell biophysics and nanomechanics. In addition to conducting hands-on research, you may also have the opportunity to mentor and supervise master’s and/or PhD students, fostering their academic and research growth.

Key parts of the work will be
– Enhance the current optical trapping setup to enable simultaneous trapping and interrogation of multiple nanoprobes.
– Engage in cutting-edge experimental research focusing on the nanomechanics of single human cells and bacteria.
– Utilize the optical tweezers setup to delve deep into the nanomotion patterns of single human cells and bacteria, providing insights into their biophysical behaviors.

Qualifications

To qualify for the position of postdoc, you must hold a doctoral degree awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline (according to the current agreement with the Swedish Agency for Government Employers).
The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English. Swedish is not a requirement but Chalmers offers Swedish courses.

You are expected to be somewhat accustomed to teaching, and to demonstrate good potential within research and education.

Contract terms
This postdoc position is a full-time temporary employment for three years.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20230542 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV:(Please name the document as: CV, Surname, Ref. number) including:
• CV, include complete list of publications
• Previous teaching and pedagogical experiences
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous research fields and main research results
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Attested copies of completed education, grades and other certificates.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.

Application deadline: 2023-10-30

For questions, please contact:
Hana Jungova, Div. Nano and Biophysics, Dpt. of Physics
hana.jungova@chalmers.se

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***

Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!