Position Summary:
We invite applications for a Research Associate position focused on the development of nanofluidics-integrated plasmonic nanostructures for real-time, single-particle level analysis and control. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team investigating the behavior and applications of plasmonic core–satellite metamaterials (PCSMs)in highly confined environments. These structures are engineered using DNA-origami-guided self-assembly of silver-coated gold nanoparticles and studied for their ability to enhance electromagnetic fields in nanoscale gaps ("hot spots").
The core objective is to integrate these complex 3D metamaterials into nanofluidic devices to enable single-particle-level diagnostics and photothermal therapy (PTT), particularly for early-stage cancer detection. This role centers around fundamental nanoscience but with clear translational biomedical goals.
Key Responsibilities:
Design, fabricate, and operate nanofluidic devices for the spatial control and observation of single PCSM particles.
Synthesize and assemble core–satellite nanostructures using DNA-origami techniques and surface chemistry.
Investigate plasmonic coupling, nanogap geometry, and electromagnetic enhancement via techniques such as SERS, dark-field microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and TEM/SEM.
Study dynamic structural transitions in PCSMs, such as strand displacement reactions triggered by cancer-cell-derived DNA, and analyze their optical shifts.
Assess the photothermal response of individual PCSMs under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation for therapeutic applications.
Collaborate closely with researchers across physics, chemistry, nanotechnology, and biotechnology to drive interdisciplinary innovation.
Prepare reports, contribute to high-impact publications, and present findings at scientific meetings.
Minimum Qualifications:
Ph.D. or M.Sc. in Nanotechnology, Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Bioengineering, or a related field.
Practical experience in nanoparticle synthesis, surface chemistry, and/or DNA nanotechnology.
Hands-on skills in nanofluidic or microfluidic system development, especially for molecular manipulation and single-particle tracking.
Familiarity with plasmonic nanostructures, SERS, and techniques related to nanoscale optical field enhancement.
Ability to conduct and analyze experiments involving nanoscale assembly, molecular interactions, and optical measurements.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with dark-field, confocal, or Raman microscopy, and high-resolution electron microscopy (TEM/SEM).
Background in photothermal therapy, biosensing, or single-molecule diagnostics.
Proficiency with data analysis tools such as MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW.
Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing to interdisciplinary team efforts.
Track record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at academic conferences.
Opportunities and Impact:
This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of nanoscience and biomedicine, where fundamental research into light–matter interactions in nanoconfined environments directly informs the next generation of label-free diagnostics and targeted cancer therapies. The role offers significant potential for scientific authorship, innovation, and collaborative growth.
