Postdoctoral Research Associate (Atkinson Lab) in Princeton, New Jersey at Princeton University

The Atkinson laboratory in the Omenn-Darling Bioengineering Institute at Princeton University is seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate. The Atkinson lab focuses on using protein engineering and synthetic biology approaches to control gene expression and metabolism in cells and assembly biological materials. The position will be advised by Josh Atkinson and will work in close collaboration with a collaborative team of researchers based in the UK and the US.

The main responsibilities of the Postdoctoral Research Associate is to lead the design and implementation of experiments for an ARIA-funded project. We will engineer microbial S-layer proteins into large-area, defect-free 2D lattices as tunable materials for molecular separations, catalysis, and photonics.

This position offers the opportunity to gain research skills in bioengineering and perform team-based research on a fast-paced project. The ideal candidate will have experience in computational protein design, experimental protein engineering, protein purification, and characterization of protein materials (e.g., AFM, TEM).

This position will allow for both professional and laboratory skill development as well as co-authorship on high-impact research articles. The PI is devoted to developing a supportive research environment and fostering career development for all members of the lab.

Postdoctoral appointments will be for one year, renewable annually based on funding and meeting all other requirements. This position is subject to the University's background check policy. This position is not eligible for sponsorship of an H-1B visa requiring consular processing; other visa sponsorships (including H-1B visas not requiring consular processing) may be available, as appropriate. The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University.

Minimum Requirements:

- Ph.D. in bioengineering, synthetic biology, biophysics, or related field

- Prior experience working in a research environment

- Experience in working in a microbiology lab, molecular biology, biochemistry, synthetic biology or equivalent.

- Effective communication skills

- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail

- Expertise or interest in learning protein engineering techniques

- Must be able to manage own time and prioritize tasks.

- Growth mindset

- Safety conscious

Preferred Requirements:

- Experience with protein engineering and computational protein design

- Experience/willingness to learn biochemistry techniques, spectroscopy, scanning-probe and electron microscopy techniques

- Strong interpersonal and communication skills

- Proficient in Microsoft Office

- Proficient in Python or other scripting language

- Experience with safety practices in an academic laboratory environment desired

Applicants must include:

- Cover letter

- Curriculum vitae

- The names and contact information of three (3) references