Postdoctoral Fellow in Biopolymer Nanocomposites

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab's (LBNL) Molecular Foundry Division is seeking a passionate Postdoctoral Fellow to join our cutting-edge Biological Nanostructures Facility. Dive into groundbreaking research at a world-renowned national lab and help develop innovative biopolymer solutions to tackle global challenges in chemical and bio-threat mitigation!

Join a trailblazing team at the Molecular Foundry-one of the U.S. Department of Energy's five elite Nanoscale Science Research Centers-where you'll pioneer polypeptoid biopolymer composites fused with inorganic metal-organic frameworks to combat chemical and bio-threats. Collaborate across our state-of-the-art Biological and Organic facilities in a dynamic, multidisciplinary hub that's pushing the boundaries of nanoscience.

What You Will Do:

• Research & Experimentation




• Develop and characterize polypeptoid biopolymer composite materials.
• Perform solid-phase polypeptoid and biopolymer synthesis.
• Utilize advanced characterization techniques such as HPLC, NMR, and Mass Spectrometry.
• Conduct bioconjugation of polypeptoids, proteins, and inorganic nanomaterials.
• Develop and implement bioassays for material evaluation.




• Collaboration & Data Analysis




• Work with chemists, engineers, and modelers to optimize material design.
• Process and manage large datasets for collaborative research.
• Utilize imaging techniques such as SEM, AFM, and optical microscopy.
• Master the art of bioconjugation, linking polypeptoids, proteins, and inorganic nanomaterials to create revolutionary composite materials.




• Scientific Communication




• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Present at national conferences and internal group meetings.
• Contribute positively to the active research culture at the Molecular Foundry.




• Leadership & Mentorship




• Provide training and guidance to undergraduate, Master's, and Ph.D. students.
• Contribute to the development of new research proposals.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience with solid-phase biopolymer synthesis, bioconjugation methods, and chromatographic purification of biopolymers.
• Strong safety awareness and commitment to a positive safety culture.
• A strong publication record in top-rated scientific journals.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research team.
• Strong organizational skills and self-motivation.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with surface or textile modification using functionalized (bio)molecules and nanoparticles.
• Programming skills in Python, MATLAB, Mathematica, or knowledge of AI/machine learning applications in materials science.

Notes:

• This is a full time, exempt from overtime pay (monthly paid), 2 year (benefits eligible), Postdoctoral Fellow appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience.

• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. Postdoctoral Fellow positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries are predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral and/or related research experience. This position has a targeted monthly salary range of $6,823.00 - $7,607.00 and is expected to start at $6,823.00 or above.
• As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work will be primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. In support of our rich community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.