Postdoctoral Fellow – Protein Nanowire Electronics for Wearable Sensors

About this position

Postdoctoral Position

A postdoctoral position is available to develop next-generation electronic devices based on microbially produced protein nanowires. These biologically derived conductive materials enable sustainable approaches to energy harvesting, neuromorphic computing, and biosensing, with demonstrated potential for high-impact studies (Nature 578:550; Nature Communications 13:4369; Nature Communications 11:1861; Nature Communications 12:3351; Biosensors & Bioelectronics 226:115147; Biosensors & Bioelectronics 278:117378).

The initial focus will be on the development of wearable biomedical sensors, with flexibility to expand into other device architectures. The successful candidate will lead experimental efforts in device fabrication and characterization, including integration of protein nanowires into electronic platforms and measurement of their electrical and sensing properties.

You will be supported by a team of synthetic biologists capable of genetically tailoring nanowire properties (e.g., conductivity, analyte binding, environmental responsiveness) to meet device requirements. This provides a unique opportunity to iteratively couple materials design with device performance.

This position offers substantial opportunity to shape research direction and develop independent lines of investigation in an emerging area at the interface of microbiology, materials science, and electronics.

Research Environment

The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary program integrating microbiology, synthetic biology, electrochemistry, and materials science. The program includes strong capabilities in engineering protein nanowires with tunable properties and applying them in functional electronic systems, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and international collaborations.

Qualifications

Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, materials science, molecular engineering, or a related field.

Preferred experience includes one or more of the following:

• Electronic materials or device fabrication
• Electrical characterization of materials
• Nanomaterials or bioelectronic interfaces

Candidates should demonstrate strong experimental skills, creativity, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.

Career Development

The position provides opportunities for high-impact publications, development of independent research directions, and career advancement in academia or industry.

Application Instructions

To apply, please submit a single PDF file containing:

• Curriculum Vitae with contact information
• A brief summary of research interests and major accomplishments
• Contact information for three references

Applications should be sent to derek.lovley@gmail.com with the subject line:

“Postdoctoral Application – Protein Nanowire Electronics”