NIST Theoretical Nanoscale Biophysics
NIST grant for nanoscale biophysics research focuses on designing molecular devices using DNA nanotechnology to understand biomolecular assembly and interactions.
This grant is no longer accepting proposals
NRC Research Associateship Programs has archived this opportunity.
Funder: NRC Research Associateship Programs
Due Dates: February 1, 2025 | May 1, 2025 | August 1, 2025
Funding Amounts: Base stipend approximately $82,764/year with $3,000 travel allowance; typical appointment duration 2 years.
Summary: Postdoctoral fellowship at NIST focused on theoretical nanoscale biophysics, including molecular device design using DNA nanotechnology and computational modeling of biomolecular assembly and interactions.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens holding a doctoral degree; requires contacting a NIST research adviser prior to application; applications reviewed twice yearly (February and August).
Description
This fellowship opportunity at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) supports postdoctoral research in theoretical nanoscale biophysics. The program aims to advance the design and understanding of molecular devices inspired by biological systems, particularly leveraging DNA nanotechnology. Research focuses on biomolecular assembly, design, and measurement through a combination of theoretical approaches and computational techniques such as Brownian dynamics and all-atom molecular dynamics simulations.
The research environment is highly collaborative, situated within NIST's Microsystems and Nanotechnology Division, providing close interaction with experimental groups to translate theory into practice. Projects include biomolecular force measurement, nanopore analysis, and spectroscopic studies of biomolecular dynamics.
Key research themes include:
- Self-assembly and folding of DNA nanostructures and proteins
- Thermodynamics and kinetics of biomolecular systems
- Ion transport and nanofluidics in biomolecular and nanostructured materials
- Development of computational algorithms for multi-scale biomolecular modeling
Recent publications from the group highlight advances in DNA origami thermodynamics, ionic transport in graphene nanopores, and quantum transport simulations, reflecting the interdisciplinary and cutting-edge nature of the research.
