Postdoctoral Research Associate - Mechanical Engineering

Innovation. Interdisciplinary collaboration. Complex problem solving. In Carnegie Mellon University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, faculty members, researchers, and students are revolutionizing focus areas in advanced manufacturing, bioengineering, computational engineering, energy and the environment, product design, and robotics. In addition, they are using their expertise in interdisciplinary research centers across the university.

Carnegie Mellon University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Characterization Facility (MCF) are searching for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join their team. This is a unique opportunity for someone who wants to explore high-throughput structural assessment of DNA nanotechnology while also engaging the broader research community as the SAXS specialist in the MCF. In the Taylor Lab, you will investigate approaches for high-throughput synthesis as well as SAXS-based characterization of DNA origami nanostructures. As the SAXS specialist, you will be the primary point of contact for the Xenocs Xeuss 3.0 SAXS by supporting users through leading training sessions, providing guidance on techniques and data analysis, and running samples on behalf of external/remote users.

Your core responsibilities will include:

• Designing, synthesizing, and characterizing a variety of nucleic acid nanostructures and machines

• Collaborating effectively to provide nanostructures to collaborating researchers

• Communicating findings in weekly meetings, at conferences, and in journal publications.

• Engaging the SAXS user base by providing training and interacting with and providing assistance to internal and external users, including changing configurations as needed.

• Maintaining and coordinating the maintenance of the SAXS with the Xenocs team and also support troubleshooting on the instrument.

• As needed, training junior Taylor lab members in essential research skills such as the design, synthesis and analytical techniques used for DNA origami.

• Other duties as assigned

Your time will be split evenly between the Taylor Lab and MCF.

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. Inclusion, collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications

• PhD in materials science, chemistry, engineering, physics or related discipline is required.

• Graduate level research experience with SAXS is required.

• Prior experience with DNA nanotechnology is preferred.

• Expertise with one or more SAXS analysis programs (RAW, XSACT, SAXSUtilities, SAXSview, TVIEW, etc.) is preferred. 

• Also OriginPro, Powerpoint, Excel are valuable software skills.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills and a passion for research are required.

• Must possess an eagerness to learn new techniques and lead projects independently.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.

Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may be awaiting you, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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