Northwestern University, Evanston, IL

               A postdoctoral research associate position is immediately available at Northwestern University in the broad area of “Scanning Probe Microscopy and its advanced applications”.

               This project is being advised by Professor Vinayak Dravid and Dr. Gajendra Shekhawat and concerns with both photovoltaics, and quantitative nanomechanical analysis and demonstrate their potential for the study of individual cell mechanics, sub-cellular structures and effect of drug vehicle on cell mechanics. Strong expertise in advanced applications of scanning probe microscopy is required for this position. The applicants should have training in photovoltaics applications in SPM, and assays for probing the mechanical properties of cells (fixed and live), such as atomic force microscopy, force volume spectroscopy and normal modes of operation in AFM. The position involves active participation in teaching and conducting short courses.

Candidates will be working in a highly dynamic, multidisciplinary research environment including faculty at Northwestern University and other academic institutions such as with “The Institute for Personalized Respiratory Medicine ((http://www.uic.edu/labs/iprm/), University of Illinois Medical Center, Chicago

The position offers very competitive salaries; candidates will have the opportunity to develop their career by writing first author publications and grants and must therefore have excellent written and oral communication skills.

               Candidates must have with a doctoral degree in electrical, mechanical, materials engineering or related applied sciences.

               Applicants with proven track record and established experience in the area of advanced SPM, instrumentation and nanopatterning are desired. Experience should include extensive expertise and hands-on experience in the SPM operations and its applications specifically in photoconductive AFM and biomechanics.           

               The position is available immediately for at least two years with a possibility for extension for additional year upon mutual agreement. Salary and compensation would commensurate with experience, in the range of $48,000 per year.

               Please send a detailed CV including bibliography, a statement of career interest, and contact information for at least three references. Submission by email is preferred, to:

Dr. Gajendra Shekhawat (SPM Position): g-shekhawat@northwestern.edu 

NUANCE Center

2220 Campus Drive

Evanston, IL 60208