Postdoctoral Researcher

Maynooth University is committed to a strategy in which the primary University goals of excellent research and scholarship, as well as outstanding education, are interlinked and equally valued.

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to work on the project Thermally-regulated Renewable and Automated DNA Computing Devices (TRAD), funded by Research Ireland. The position is under the direct supervision of Dr Abeer Eshra and co-supervised by Prof. Damien Woods. It will be based at the Hamilton Institute with a co-appointment in the Department of Computer Science. The project combines theoretical and experimental approaches to develop renewable DNA computing devices capable of performing multiple computations in a single tube. The primary purpose is to regenerate automatically through temperature cycling and to use DNA as a low-energy, sustainable medium for molecular computation and data storage.

The successful candidate will lead the design and modelling of thermally regulated DNA motifs and contribute to developing an automated, renewable DNA computing prototype. The role encompasses both wet-lab and in silico work, including sequence design, data analysis, experimental planning, and writing publications. The postdoc will work closely with the PI and a PhD student.

Candidates must hold, or be on the verge of holding, a PhD in a relevant field, such as DNA nanotechnology, computer science, bioengineering, synthetic biology, molecular self-assembly, physics, biology, or chemistry. They should demonstrate strong experimental skills or a background in modelling and analysis of molecular computation. Prior experience with DNA strand design or molecular computing is desirable.

Candidates should be able to plan and execute their own research, engage in scientific discussions, and work as part of a collaborative team. The post holder will publish high-quality research, mentor students, and contribute to future grant applications. We are seeking an individual who takes initiative, explores new ideas, and is eager to push the boundaries of renewable molecular computing.