Postdoctoral Research Associate -Microscopy and Scattering of Membranes

Requisition Id 16020 

Overview:    

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to reside within the Sample Environment and Labs Section, which is part of the Neutron Scattering Division (NSD), Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).    

 

As part of the team, you will carry out in-situ studies of droplet interface bilayers (DIBs) using fluorescence microscopy techniques (confocal, multiphoton, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, total internal reflection fluorescence) and Flicker spectroscopy. You will also engage with neutron scattering researchers in mapping DIB experiments to neutron reflectometry studies.  

 

The main objectives are: (1) To implement fluorescence microscopy techniques and Flicker spectroscopy to studies of DIBs under electrical stimulation; (2) Use other physical characterization techniques (differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic light scattering, small angle neutron and/or x-ray scattering) to characterize the DIBs; and (3) Develop/implement image analysis software. The prospective candidate will also have the opportunity to develop their own science that will complement the proposed DIB studies.  

  

Major Duties/Responsibilities:   

• Study droplet interface bilayer (DIB) systems using fluorescence microscopy techniques (confocal, multiphoton, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, total internal reflection fluorescence) and Flicker spectroscopy. 

• Use other physical characterization techniques (differential scanning calorimetry, Langmuir-Blodgett films, dynamic light scattering, small angle neutron and/or x-ray scattering) to characterize the DIBs.  

• Collaborate with neutron instrument staff in developing DIB experiments for neutron reflectometry studies. 

• Collaborate with personnel at CNMS in the production of deuterated lipids. 

• Publish scientific papers resulting from this research and present results at appropriate national and international meetings. 

• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. 

• As a member of the ORNL scientific community, you will be expected to commit to ORNL's Research Code of Conduct. Our full code of conduct and a statement by the Lab Director's office can be found here: https://www.ornl.gov/content/research-integrity. 

  

Basic Qualifications: 

• A PhD in physics, chemistry, biochemistry or a related field completed within the last five years. 

 

 Preferred Qualifications: 

• Experience in fluorescence microscopy techniques (confocal, multiphoton, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, total internal reflection fluorescence) and Flicker spectroscopy. 

• Experience with lipids and proteins. 

• Background in the use of differential scanning calorimetry, Langmuir-Blodgett films, dynamic light scattering, small angle neutron and/or x-ray scattering.  

• Background in the use of image analysis software.  

• A record of productive research, demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentation