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Postdoctoral Scholar in Atomic Force Microscopy

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Position description

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system’s 10 campuses and the first American research university built in the 21st century. With more than 7,500 undergraduate and graduate students, UC Merced offers an environment that combines a commitment to diversity, inclusion, collaboration and professional development. With bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs, strong research and academic partnerships, and community involvement, the UC Merced campus is continually evolving and requires talented, knowledgeable and dynamic educators, researchers, management and staff.

Ranked among the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, UC Merced is uniquely equipped to provide educational opportunities to highly qualified students from the San Joaquin Valley and throughout California. The campus enjoys a special connection with nearby Yosemite National Park, is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design, and supports the economic development of Merced and the region.

In Fall 2016, UC Merced broke ground on a $1.3 billion public-private partnership that is unprecedented in higher education. The Merced 2020 Project will nearly double the physical capacity of the campus by 2020, enhancing academic distinction, student success and research excellence. UC Merced is also building the Downtown Campus Center, a $33 million, three-story administrative building in the heart of Merced.

The recently-founded Baykara Lab (http://baykaralab.ucmerced.edu), directed by Asst. Prof. Mehmet Z. Baykara, is looking for a creative, self-motivated and enthusiastic post-doctoral scholar with extensive experience in atomic force microscopy, and its application to biophysical problems. The research conducted at Baykara Lab is at the intersection of mechanical engineering, materials science, and applied physics, with world-class expertise in the areas of nanomechanics and nanotribology. Dr. Baykara’s previous work includes, among others, the three-dimensional imaging of interaction forces with picometer resolution (Nature Nanotechnology 4, 307, 2009) as well as the discovery of structural lubricity under ambient conditions (Nature Communications 7, 12055, 2016).

The successful candidate must have obtained a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related field prior to starting the position. The candidate must demonstrate deep knowledge and a strong record of publications in the area of atomic force microscopy and the experience necessary to perform atomic force microscopy experiments on biological systems. Highly self-motivated individuals who have demonstrated the ability to conduct independent scientific research are desirable. Strong oral and verbal communication skills are required.

Interested candidates are required to submit 1) a cover letter, 2) curriculum vitae, and 3) a list of three references with contact information including mailing address, phone number, and e-mail address; submitted through the Recruit system.

Salary is based on the University of California Academic Salary Scales. Review of applications will begin immediately. The position is open until filled; with a final closing date of March 31, 2018. Starting date is negotiable.

The University of California, Merced is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer with a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of diversity among its faculty, students and staff. The University is supportive of dual career couples.

Please contact Mehmet Z. Baykara at mehmet.baykara@ucmerced.edu for additional information.

Application Requirements

Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

  • Cover Letter

Reference requirements
  • 3 required (contact information only)

Job location

Merced, CA