Nanoparticle Dynamics in Polyelectrolyte Brushes
Postdoctoral Research Associate Position
University of Pennsylvania
The Opportunity: Prof. Russ Composto and Prof. Karen Winey of the University of Pennsylvania are extending their study of nanoparticles to the behavior of nanoparticles in polymer electrolyte brushes. Nanoparticles come in a variety of sizes, shapes, chemistries, and functionalities, ranging from folded proteins, viruses, and quantum dots. Because nanoparticles at interfaces underpin a broad and expanding range of applications including nanoscale filtering and detection, this project will research the motion of individual nanoparticles in complex local environments. Most previous studies of nanoparticle motion have been limited to studies of ensembles of particles or particles in homogeneous environments, and these studies provide a valuable foundation upon which to build. Here, recent advances in imaging methods and data processing methods will enable the study of nanoparticles in heterogeneous environments one particle at a time. Interferometric scattering microscopy provides exceptional spatial and temporal resolution and was originally developed to image biomolecules at interfaces. These studies and fundamental understanding will inform advanced strategies for separating natural or synthetic nanoparticles based on size, shape, or charge by designing interfaces that selectively trap nanoparticles. The postdoc will be jointly advised by Winey and Composto.
The Organization: The University of Pennsylvania is a top research university located in Philadelphia, PA. The University has a compact campus that allows for convenient collaborations between the School of Engineering and Applied Science and the School of Medicine, just a 15‐minute walk away. The Composto and Winey research groups are committed to increasing diversity and inclusion in STEM and we particularly welcome applicants from underrepresented groups.
The Qualifications: Candidates should have a PhD in chemical engineering, materials science, biophysics, chemistry, or another relevant discipline. They should also have a successful record as an experimentalist, and a desire to develop innovative research advances. Good communications skills and the ability to work within a diverse research team are essential. Prior experience with advanced optical imaging methods or polymer brushes is useful, although not required.
To Apply: Send a cover letter, CV and up to two publications combined into a single PDF file directly to Karen Winey (winey@seas.upenn.edu). Requests for additional information are welcome.