Post Doctoral.Associate-Aging Institute-Dr Aditi Gurkar Lab

The Gurkar laboratory at The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine - Aging Institute is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Researcher with expertise in Magnetic Force Microscopy (MFM) to join our interdisciplinary research team. This role involves applying MFM and other scanning probe techniques to study both biological materials and magnetic materials at the nanoscale. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of nanotechnology, materials science, and biophysics, contributing to cutting-edge research in magnetic phenomena in mapping cellular senescence.

Key Responsibilities:

* MFM Imaging and Analysis: Perform high-resolution MFM experiments on a variety of biological and magnetic materials, ensuring accurate data collection and interpretation.

* Interdisciplinary Research: Collaborate with experts in materials science, biology, and physics to investigate magnetic properties in complex systems, including biomagnetic structures and engineered magnetic materials.

* Instrument Operation: Efficiently operate MFMF for optimal performance and troubleshooting any technical issues.

* Data Interpretation: Analyze MFM data, separating magnetic signals from topographic artifacts, and quantify magnetic properties at the nanoscale.

* Experimental Design: Design and implement experiments to explore the role of magnetic interactions in biological systems and novel magnetic materials.

* Publications and Presentations: Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present research at conferences and seminars.

Required Qualifications:

* PhD in Physics, Materials Science/ Engineering, Nanotechnology, Biophysics, or a related field, with a focus on Magnetic Force Microscopy (MFM) or Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).

* Strong Understanding of Magnetism: Comprehensive knowledge of magnetic materials, magnetic domains, and nanoscale magnetic interactions.

* Proficiency in MFM: Hands-on experience with MFM operation, probe selection, and image interpretation.

* Quantitative Data Analysis: Proficient in analyzing MFM data using relevant software (e.g., Gwyddion, SPIP) for quantitative analysis and magnetic field distribution mapping.

* Collaboration Skills: Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with biologists, physicists, and engineers.

* Publication Record: A strong track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals, particularly in nanotechnology, MFM, or interdisciplinary materials research.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Experience in Biological Systems: Familiarity with the application of MFM to biological materials

* Nanotechnology Background: Expertise in nanoscale surface science, with knowledge of surface properties and nanoscale interactions. Experience with FTIR, Raman, and TEM is a plus

* Problem-solving skills: Ability to troubleshoot technical issues with the MFM system and creatively design new experimental approaches.

* Communication Skills: Strong written and oral communication skills, with experience presenting research at international conferences and writing successful research papers.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.