Postdoctoral position in experimental Active Matter

We have an opening for a postdoc to join the Fradenlab at Brandeis University, Waltham, MA USA and collaborate with experimentalists Zvonimir Dogic and Guillaume Duclos and theorists Michael Hagan and Aparna Baskaran, to understand the striking phenomena and dramatic new physical behaviors observed in confined active nematics. The experimental system consists of extensile bundles of microtubules that consume ATP and generate flow. We will use 3D printers and photolithographic methods to manufacture a variety of confined geometries and use fluorescence microscopy on confined nematics to measure the velocity, director and concentration fields as a function of container size and geometry, as well as microscopic parameters such as ATP, tubulin and kinesin concentration. We’ll employ second-harmonic generation light microscopy to probe the alignment of the microtubules. A number of newly developed variants of this system allows control over boundary and initial conditions, network architecture and coupling of the force producing kinesin motors to the microtubules.

The ideal candidate would have experience in soft matter and biophysical experimentation, light microscopy, image processing and in working with purified biological components. The position is available immediately.

Applications with CV, research statement and the names of three references should be sent to fraden@brandeis.edu.

Brandeis University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to building a culturally diverse intellectual community and strongly encourages applications from women and minorities.