Control of CRISPR/Cas through surface interactions
This project studies how CRISPR/Cas activity changes when attached to surfaces, aiming to improve biosensors and gene editing by better understanding surface interactions.
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 | August 1, 2025 | November 1, 2025 | February 1, 2026
Funding Amounts: $99,200 stipend per year plus $3,000 travel allowance; typical postdoctoral fellowship duration 2-3 years.
Summary: Postdoctoral fellowship to study how CRISPR/Cas activity is modulated by nanoparticle and 2-D surface interactions, aiming to enhance biosensing and genome editing technologies.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents; requires Ph.D. earned within 5 years; relocation and health insurance benefits included.
Description
This postdoctoral research opportunity at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) focuses on advancing the fundamental understanding of CRISPR/Cas systems when conjugated to nanoparticles (NPs) and two-dimensional (2-D) surfaces. CRISPR/Cas is a highly specific DNA/RNA sensing and cleavage system that has revolutionized gene editing and biosensing. Despite significant investment, critical knowledge gaps remain, especially regarding how surface interactions affect CRISPR/Cas activity.
The program leverages NRL's expertise in DNA nanotechnology and surface functionalization to explore how enzyme or substrate conjugation to NPs and 2-D surfaces influences CRISPR/Cas function. Outcomes are expected to improve surface-bound CRISPR/Cas activity, which is crucial for developing optimal biosensors and safer, more precise genome editing tools. The research also addresses strategic needs due to CRISPR/Cas's potential as a biothreat.
Example research includes quantitative nucleic acid detection using quantum dot-based molecular beacons with CRISPR/Cas nucleases.
