Boise State University, powered by creativity and innovation, stands uniquely positioned in the Northwest as a metropolitan research university of distinction. Learn more about Boise State and the City of Boise at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/

Boise State University is building an inclusive community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, cultural contributions, work history, and perspectives create a rich and rewarding academic experience for our students. Research demonstrates that people thrive when they feel welcome, respected, and inspired. We seek applicants who are committed to helping us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Applications from members of historically marginalized groups, including women, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), those with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, those who have served in the military, and members of other underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged.

The Boise State Quantum (qDNA) DNA Research Group and DNA Construct Synthesis Team is seeking candidates for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow position to carry out research on DNA-templated dye aggregate systems that exhibit exciton delocalization and electronic coherence. This position will participate in research projects associated with the qDNA Research Group, which is part of the Nanoscale Materials and Device Group (NMDG) in the Micron School of Materials Science and Engineering (MSMSE) at Boise State University. The position will be funded via the Department of Energy, Basic Energy Science grant that ends August 14, 2025. The group actively pursues new funding opportunities. The position may be extended beyond August 14, 2025 based on future funding and continued performance. Offered annual salary depends on experience and qualifications and ranges from about $55,000 to $60,000 and the position is benefit-eligible. 

After earning a Ph.D., the next step in the academic or research career path is often a postdoc. A postdoc is a continuation of a researcher’s training that enables them to further their professional development and start to transition from student to independent researcher. Postdocs also often take additional leadership or teaching responsibilities in their laboratory or department. These positions are usually two to three years and it is not unusual for a researcher to do more than one postdoc.

The Postdoctoral Research Fellow’s primary research will entail designing, synthesizing, and characterizing DNA-templated dye aggregates as a member of the qDNA Research Group, which is under the direction of Distinguished Research Fellow Dr. Bernard Yurke (formerly of Bell Labs and considered one of the founders of the field of dynamic DNA nanotechnology) and the group’s Principal Investigator Prof. Bill Knowlton, and the DNA Construct Synthesis Team led by Assoc. Prof. Jeunghoon Lee. The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will be part of a multidisciplinary team consisting of engineers, physicists, and chemists with expertise in a variety of steady-state, ultrafast, and single-molecule experimental methods and computational approaches.

Basic

• The selected candidate must be able to meet eligibility requirements for work in the United States at the time the appointment is scheduled to begin and to continue working legally for the proposed term of the appointment.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Scientific writing skills demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications.
• Ability to acquire accurate, reproducible data.
• Critical eye towards consistency, reproducibility, and the scientific method in general.
• Excellent project and time management skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and mentoring skills.
• Advocate for safety and ethics in the workplace.

Requires a minimum of a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in a relevant discipline.

Preferred Qualifications:

Salary range starts at $55,016 and is commensurate with experience. Boise State University is committed to offering a benefits package that provides health and financial protection plans as well as resources to promote health and well-being. Our program provides flexibility so you can choose the benefits that are right for you and your family. Learn more about our benefit options at https://www.boisestate.edu/hrs/benefits/ .

Cover Letter, CV, and a list of References.