Postdoctoral Fellow
Tennessee State University
- Nashville, TN
- Permanent
- Full-time
Division College of Agriculture
Department Agricultural Science
Number of hours per week 37.5
Days to be worked Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
Months per year Fiscal (12 months)
If modified, list months
Job Type
Campus Main Campus
If other location, please indicate
Position Number 116950
Advertised Salary 51,500
Pay Basis
Job DescriptionJOB DESCRIPTION:
The College of Agriculture at Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN invites applications for a 24-month postdoctoral fellowship. This position is funded by the National Science Foundation for Dr. Ali Taheri. No prior postdoctoral experience is necess ary. The project aims to: 1) Design specific gRNAs for pathogenic bacteria and assess their specificity, 2) Develop functional groups to attach to the dCas9 enzyme (or its variants) and graft them onto graphene or MXene-graphene materials, and 3) Validate the efficiency of these sensors while investigating the impact of bandgap and capacitance tuning. Duties and responsibilities: 1) Design and evaluate specific gRNAs for food-borne pathogenic agents. 2)Fabricate and validate the new CRISPR based sensors based on graphene or composite materials. 3) Study molecular interactions of target nucleotides with gRNA and the chemical reaction to electrical signal conversion. 4) Explore broader applications, developing a versatile platform for rapid pathogenic agent detection. 5) Contribute to the long-term goal of developing ultra-compact diagnostic biosensors for point-of-care applications. 6) Mentor graduate students, revise courses, and participate in outreach activities, including workshops and student competitions. 7) Collaborate with the team to establish foundational bio-nanotechnologies and 8) Maintain organized records, prepare progress reports, and contribute to publications and presentations of the results at scientific conferences. The postdoc will be trained in writing manuscripts, research best practices, data analysis and will be provided with opportunities to develop research mentoring skills and grant writing experiences.MINIMIUM QUAULIFICATIONS:
The ideal candidate for the Post-Doctoral Position in should hold a Ph.D. in a relevant field, showcasing expertise in bio-nanotechnology and a strong background in molecular interactions, chemical bonding, and nucleotide-based detection systems. Experience with microfabrication, including soft lithography, metal deposition, and fluid dynamics. Experience with lab-on-a-chip technologies, including design, characterization, and validation. Strong knowledge of electrochemistry, voltammetric techniques and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). Experience with surface modification techniques, electrochemical analytical methods and related instrumental and software tools. Proficiency in working with graphene and composite materials, a track record of high-quality publications, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines are essential. Excellent communication skills, a proactive work ethic, and prior experience in mentoring students, along with an interest in outreach activities, are also desired. Applicants should demonstrate independence, initiative, and a commitment to contributing to a diverse and inclusive research environment. Women and persons belonging to minority groups in STEM fields are especially encouraged to apply.Minimum Qualifications
Special Instructions to ApplicantsEmployment is contingent upon successfully completing a criminal background check as mandated by Tennessee State University.Official transcripts for positions which require a post-secondary undergraduate degree, advanced degree and/or certification must be presented upon hire.An unofficial transcript may be attached in the “Transcript” section.You will be required to provide names and contact information for three references during your application to the posting. If you are the recommended candidate for the position, our online hiring system will automatically generate solicitation for these letters using contact information you provided.
Open Date 04/19/2024
Close Date 05/19/2024
Job Category
Requisition Number
BenefitsTennessee State University offers eligible employees a competitive benefits package that includes annual leave (vacation), sick leave, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, flexible benefits plans and more.
Quick LinkReference LetterReferencesMinimum References Required 2
Recommendation DeadlineSupplemental QuestionsRequired fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).Documents Needed to ApplyRequired Documents * CV/Resume
- Cover Letter
- Transcript 1
- Other