NRL Nanoparticle-Biomolecular Interfacial Phenomena
The Navy seeks research into nanoparticle-enzyme systems for synthetic biology, exploring how nanoparticles affect enzyme activity to create useful materials.
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 (Next application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $99,200 stipend plus $3,000 travel allowance; relocation assistance and health insurance available. Typical award duration 2-3 years.
Summary: Postdoctoral fellowship at the US Naval Research Laboratory to conduct research on nanoparticle-enzyme systems for cell-free synthetic biology, focusing on enzyme activity modulation at nanoparticle-biomolecular interfaces.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents with a Ph.D. earned within the last 5 years; requires contacting the research adviser prior to applying.
Description
This postdoctoral research opportunity is offered by the Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) in Washington, DC. The project focuses on creating and studying nanoparticle-enzyme systems for cell-free synthetic biology applications. The research aims to exploit unique phenomena occurring at the interface between nanomaterials—especially nanoparticles—and biomolecules, with a particular emphasis on how enzyme activity is altered or enhanced at this interface.
Key research areas include assembling enzymatic cascades around nanoparticles to enable channeling behavior, which can improve enzymatic efficiency and product synthesis. The ultimate goal is to develop hybrid nanomaterials capable of synthesizing high-value products relevant to warfighter performance and battle system components.
This opportunity provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and mentorship from leading scientists, including Research Adviser Igor Langier Medintz.
Relevant Keywords
- Bionanotechnology
- Nanoparticle
- Enzyme kinetics
- Cell-Free Synthetic Biology
- Biocatalysis
- Bioconjugation
Selected References
- Vranish et al., Langmuir 34, 2901-2925 (2018)
- Vranish et al., Nanoscale 9, 5172-5187 (2017)
- Breger et al., ACS Nano 8, 8491-8503 (2015)
- Sapsford KE et al., Chemical Reviews 113, 1904-2074 (2013)
