Postdoctoral position on Mechanical Control of Zebrafish Development - University of California, Santa Barbara
We are seeking outstanding postdoctoral candidates to join the Campas lab (Morphogenesis and Self-organization of Living Matter lab) at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). Our group combines theoretical and experimental approaches to study the spatiotemporal control of tissue mechanics during morphogenesis, using zebrafish as model organism. We have recently developed two microdroplet-based techniques that enable direct measurements of forces and mechanical properties (such as stiffness and fluidity) within developing 3D tissues, as well as allowing the application of controlled forces. Using these techniques, we are studying the molecular control of spatiotemporal variations in tissue mechanics and the role of mechanical feedback on cell behavior, all within developing embryos.
We are specifically seeking independent, passionate, and motivated applicants for a postdoctoral position to work on the mechanics of embryonic development in zebrafish. The candidate will be able to work in a collaborative manner with a highly interdisciplinary group of researchers, including theoretical physicists and engineers. A Ph.D. in the biological sciences, biophysics or related fields and at least 3 years of laboratory research experience in zebrafish development are required. Applicants with quantitative biology or biophysics backgrounds, in addition to experience in zebrafish development, will be considered positively.
This is a renewable, two-year position with full benefits, reappointed annually according to the performance of the candidate. Salary will be competitive and dependent on the level of experience of the candidate. Applicants should email a CV and a description of research interests to campas@engineering.ucsb.edu, and should also arrange for at least two references to submit letters of recommendation of their behalf. Applications submitted by October 31st 2016 will receive priority consideration, but the position will remain open until filled. Start date is flexible and could be as early as November 2016.
The University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) provides an exceptional, interdisciplinary and collaborative environment for scientists interested in quantitative biology and systems biology. Researchers at UCSB enjoy regular visits from world-leading scientists and workshops on quantitative biology and biophysics through the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics, in addition to exposure to the Summer School on Quantitative Biology.