Intercellular Signaling and Functional Nanomaterials at the Abiotic/Biotic Interface
Postdoc position at NRL studying cell signaling (Notch, BMP) and nanoparticle applications (biosensing, drug delivery) with mammalian cells.
This grant is no longer accepting proposals
NRC Research Associateship Programs has archived this opportunity.
Funder: NRC Research Associateship Programs
Due Dates: May 1, 2025
Funding Amounts: $99,200 stipend plus $3,000 travel allowance; relocation and health insurance benefits available.
Summary: Postdoctoral fellowship at the US Naval Research Laboratory to study intercellular signaling (Notch, BMP pathways) and develop functional nanomaterials for biosensing, imaging, and drug delivery.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents; requires multidisciplinary skills in molecular/cellular biology, protein bioconjugation, mammalian cell culture, and fluorescence imaging.
Description
This postdoctoral research opportunity is hosted by the Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering at the US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) in Washington, DC. The position involves working on two interdisciplinary projects:
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Intercellular Signaling Control: Funded by DARPA, this project focuses on understanding and controlling feedback loops in intercellular communication among mammalian cell phenotypes. It uses epithelial cells expressing ligand-receptor pairs in the Notch and BMP signaling pathways to study "sender" and "receiver" cell interactions, aiming to maintain distinct cell states with spatial and temporal precision.
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Functional Nanomaterials at the Abiotic/Biotic Interface: Supported by NRL’s Institute for Nanoscience, this project explores nanoparticle bioconjugates for biosensing, cellular labeling, imaging, and controlled drug delivery. It involves working with various nanomaterials such as semiconductor quantum dots, gold nanoparticles, and liquid crystal nanoparticles. Techniques include protein and peptide engineering, Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), and fluorescence microscopy. A recent focus is on nanoparticle actuation for controlled cargo release to elicit targeted cellular responses.
The position offers the chance to collaborate with a highly interdisciplinary team at the intersection of chemistry, biology, biophysics, and materials science, addressing challenges relevant to the Navy and Department of Defense.
