The Institute for NanoBioTechnology (INBT) and Department of Mechanical Engineering at Johns Hopkins University invite applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position in the BioMEMS Laboratory led by Tza-Huei “Jeff” Wang (For information about the lab, see: https://me.jhu.edu/thwang/ ). We seek a highly motivated, independent researcher to lead scientific efforts and technology development on microfluidic-based in vitro diagnostic technologies toward infectious disease and cancer detection…
applications.
Key Responsibilities
- Independently lead and collaborate on research projects aimed at detecting human diseases including infectious diseases (especially bacterial bloodstream infections and antimicrobial resistance) and cancer (especially lung and ovarian).
- Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments focused on development and testing of microfluidic devices and related workflows, as well as development and validation of nucleic acid-based diagnostic assays.
- Mentor and supervise graduate and undergraduate students.
- Prepare progress reports and present results to collaborators and sponsors.
- Publish findings in peer‑reviewed journals.
- Contribute to competitive grant and contract proposals to federal agencies (e.g., NIH).
Minimum Qualifications
- Ph.D. in biomedical engineering, bioengineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- Demonstrated track record in microfluidics and in vitro diagnosis of human diseases.
- Expertise in designing, fabricating, and testing microfluidic devices and platforms (e.g., cleanroom microfabrication, laser cutting, thermoforming, 3D printing) and in microscopy-based characterization.
- Expertise in molecular diagnostics, especially for nucleic acid targets (e.g., PCR, digital PCR, methylation-specific PCR, LAMP, RPA, CRISPR‑based assays).
- Expertise in either microbiological assays (e.g., culture, antimicrobial susceptibility testing) or cancer detection assays (e.g., liquid biopsy handling, nucleic acid extraction).
- Proficiency in data analysis and computational tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or equivalent).
- Strong written and oral communication skills and a record of publishing and presenting research.
- Demonstrated ability to mentor and lead junior researchers and work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
Preferred Qualifications (Not Required)
- 2 or fewer years of postdoctoral experience.
- Experience in safe handling of clinical specimens (e.g., blood and plasma) and infectious materials (e.g., bacteria) in BSL‑2 laboratories environment.
- Experience in developing, implementing, and maintaining laboratory standard operating procedures and biosafety practices at the BSL‑2 level.
- Prior experience with clinical microbiology workflows and familiarity with regulatory pathways (e.g., FDA EUA/510(k)) for diagnostic devices. Experience with technology translation, commercialization, or interactions with industry partners.
Salary and Benefits
Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, consistent with NIH FY2026 standards (https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-26-044.html). For information on benefits, visit: https://engineering.jhu.edu/studentaffairs/postdoctoral-fellows/services-and-benefits/.
Application Instructions
Interested applicants should submit a letter of interest describing research experience and goals, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references with the subject line “Postdoc Application – Your Name – Microfluidic Disease Diagnostics” to both Prof. Tza-Huei “Jeff” Wang (thwang@jhu.edu) and Prof. Kuangwen Hsieh (khsieh4@jhu.edu). Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
EOE Statement
Johns Hopkins University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and values diversity. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.