Postdoctoral Associate in Bio-inspired Material Architectures

Shashank Priya and Richard James are seeking an experimentalist for a postdoctoral position on the MURI project "Bio-inspired Material Architectures for the Deep Sea". The scientific goal of the project is to understand the fundamental principles underlying the biological adaptation of deep-sea animals to high pressures, pressure changes, and pressure differentials across material interfaces. The work will involve the design, printing and evaluation of the behavior of biocomposite materials and complex structures that mimic deep sea creatures, some of which can be synthesized using the 3D Bioprinting Facility at the University of Minnesota (https://bioprint.umn.edu). Candidates should have a strong background in mechanics and materials science with expertise on synthesis techniques that may include bioprinting. It is essential that candidates have a sufficiently broad background and interest to interact effectively with theorists, computational scientists, marine biologists and oceanographers. Knowledge of biomaterials will be advantageous to develop collaborations within the team.

Candidates should submit via the UM job system a cover letter, full CV with publications, and contact information for two references who are willing to supply letters. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact Professor Richard James (james@umn.edu) for more information.

Duties for this position will include:

• Conducting experimental research and construction of biocomposite materials and structures
• Investigating and implementing strategies for locomotion
• Building experimental apparatus to generate moderate pressures
• Building appropriate sensors
• Bioprinting (previous experience desirable but not necessary)
• Designing experiments
• Collaborating effectively with other participants in the MURI project
• Presenting results at monthly MURI meetings
• Assisting with the writing of research papers
• Interacting effectively with theorists, computational scientists, marine biologists, and oceanographers
  

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in one of the engineering sciences involving mechanics, materials science or biology
• A past record of discovery involving creative experimentation
• Excellent computer skills appropriate to experimental work
• Excellent organizational, presentation and writing skills
• Demonstrated self-motivation and creativity

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in mechanics and materials science
• Knowledge of biomaterials
• Expertise on synthesis techniques, including bioprinting

The AEM department has vibrant and active research programs in all areas of aerospace engineering and mechanics, including continuum mechanics, fluid dynamics, atomistic methods, hypersonics, aerospace systems, computational mechanics and aerospace structures and materials. The department is in the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Minnesota, which is a world-class research university with outstanding resources and programs in engineering and science, health sciences, social sciences and liberal arts. The AEM department has close ties with on-campus multidisciplinary centers, and convenient access to outstanding shared experimental and computational facilities, such as the Gemini-Huntley Robotics Research Laboratory of the Minnesota Robotics Institute, the Minnesota Nano Center, the Characterization Facility, the Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, and the Minnesota Supercomputing Institute. More information about the department is available at https://cse.umn.edu/aem

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

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The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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