Recruit

The biological physics and soft matter theory group of Kinjal Dasbiswas at the Department of Physics, University of California, Merced, invites applications for an open postdoctoral position, to begin in Fall 2024 (flexible starting date). The Dasbiswas group is broadly interested in the theory and modeling of mechanobiology and active matter, as occurring in cells and cytoskeletal assemblies.

The postdoctoral scholar is expected to primarily work on the theory and computational modeling of active solids. These are elastic systems with embedded active forces, that exhibit spontaneous shape change, long-range order and non-equilibrium pattern formation. Two elastic model systems of primary interest are discrete networks and thin sheets. The projects will involve model building (continuum or agent-based), numeric simulation and theoretical analysis of biologically inspired effects such as the coupled feedback between active forces, material deformations and geometry, structural order, and chemical concentration. The detailed project design will be decided in mutual consultation between the PI and the postdoc.

The successful candidate will join a vibrant and collaborative community of biophysics/soft matter research groups, and will have ample opportunities to also collaborate with other faculty, such as the theory groups of Professors Ajay Gopinathan and Kevin Mitchell, and experimental labs such of Professor Linda Hirst. The PI also maintains robust collaborative connections with experimentalists working on cytoskeletal active gels and tissue mechanobiology across multiple institutions.

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system’s 10 campuses. With over 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students (https://cie.ucmerced.edu/analytics-hub/student-statistics), UC Merced is committed to interdisciplinary excellence in research and teaching as well as to diversity, equity and inclusion. Ranked as one of the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, UC Merced provides outstanding educational opportunities to highly qualified students from the heart of California, the nation, and abroad. The campus has special connections to nearby Yosemite National Park; is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design; and supports the economic development of Central California. The Merced 2020 Project doubled the physical capacity of the campus, and enhanced academic distinction, student success, and research excellence (https://merced2020.ucmerced.edu/).

The University of California, Merced is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements. This includes the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/5000695/VaccinationProgramsPolicy.