The School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering within the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University (ASU) is seeking applicants for a Postdoctoral Research Scholar in the area of nanoprobe development for in vivo imaging, led by Heather A. Clark (https://nanosensors.engineering.asu.edu). The School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, one of the eight Fulton Schools, houses a vibrant biomedical engineering research community (Learn more at https://research.engineering.asu.edu/).

Currently, we are working at the interface of chemistry, biology, and engineering to develop and apply novel nano-scale probes for biological measurements. In order to fulfill our goal of chemical imaging deep in the body (brain, central nervous system, circulatory system), we are approaching the problem through two directions. First, we are working with fluorescence-based sensors in cellular and tissue environments to understand the capabilities of the sensors for single-cell signaling. Second, we are tailoring our sensors to be compatible with advanced imaging techniques (photoacoustics, MRI) to image deep in the body. Ultimately, we will use the probes to image specific chemical processes in the body, in real-time.

We seek a team leader to develop novel nanoscale contrast agents made on a DNA origami platform to detect real time levels of biomarkers in the body. A background in fabricating and characterizing DNA nanostructures is preferred, but a background in bioimaging modalities including MRI, photoacoustics, and fluorescence will also be considered. Successful candidates should be motivated, curious, and excited about tackling new projects in a team environment.

The initial appointment is for one year, with renewal for one additional year, contingent upon satisfactory performance, the needs of the university, and the availability of resources.

Required Qualifications:

• Earned doctorate in Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering or related discipline by the time of appointment. PhD must be obtained within the past 4 years.

Essential Duties:

• Overseeing project management, organizing meetings, and providing leadership.
• Designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and preparing reports or manuscripts.
• Providing training and mentorship to graduate and undergraduate students.
• Leading and coordinating the development of research proposals and securing future funding.
• Fostering and maintaining collaborations among faculty, post-docs, and students across Centers and the University.
• Ensuring effective coordination among team members.

Desired Qualifications:

• Interest in developing novel nanoscale contrast agents for use in biomedical imaging.
• Experience in fluorescence, photoacoustic, and/or magnetic resonance imaging.
• Wet lab experience.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Experience with mentoring undergraduate students.
• Experience in project management, particular cross-communication among collaborators.

The application deadline is January 31, 2025. Applications will continue to be accepted on a rolling basis for a reserve pool. Applications in the reserve pool may then be reviewed in the order in which they were received until the position is filled. Candidates will be asked to create or use an existing Interfolio Dossier to submit the following:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Statement describing research interests (two pages maximum)
• Statement describing teaching interests and philosophy (two pages maximum)
• Contact information for three references

The ASU Charter states, “ASU is a comprehensive public research university, measured not by whom it excludes, but by whom it includes and how they succeed; advancing research and discovery of public value; and assuming fundamental responsibility for the economic, social, cultural and overall health of the communities it serves.” The Fulton Schools of Engineering are dedicated to cultivating excellence, delivering innovation that matters, encouraging bold thinking, fostering a community of learning and collaboration and building a foundation for all to be successful. Applicants are encouraged to address how their past, current and future activities align with the ASU Charter and Fulton Schools of Engineering values in their application materials.

For additional information regarding position specifics, please contact the search committee chair, Professor Heather Clark via email at Heather.Ann.Clark@asu.edu.