Summary

Two postdoctoral positions are available in the Materials Chemistry group (MPA-MC) to support our effort in the assembly of a chemical system that has the rudimentary functionality of a protocellular entity. The postdoctoral researcher will work within a multidisciplinary team at Los Alamos and collaborate with colleagues at the University of Southern Denmark. Candidates can apply in one of the following two areas: (1) The synthesis of oligonucleotide linked photocatalysts. The work in this area will involve the synthesis of ruthenium catalysts that are covalently appended to a nucleobase or an oligo-nucleotide and the use of these catalysts for the photochemical generation of fatty acids from an ester precursor. The conditions that are necessary for the formation of vesicular structures using this chemistry will be determined. The project will also involve the development of this photochemistry for novel a DNA ligation scheme. (2) Study the formation and dynamics of vesicles from mixtures of prebiotically relevant short chain fatty acids. The work in this area will focus on understanding the formation and stability of vesicular structures from short chain fatty acids, their ability to encapsulate substrates either in their interior or in the bilayer membrane. It will also involve studies on the growth and division of these vesicles when more fatty acid is generated through the photo catalytic cleavage of ester precursor molecules.

Required Skills

The successful candidate(s) will have 1) a demonstrated record of technical excellence and innovative thinking as evidenced by publication and presentation record and letters of reference. 2) An ability to work effectively both in a team environment and independently to meet programmatic milestones and scientific goals. 3) Effective verbal and written communication skills. 4) An ability to work efficiently under pressure in a rapidly changing environment. 5) Excellent organizational skills. 5) The successful candidate will have a background in one of the following areas: (A) strong skills in synthetic organic chemistry with the ability to design and complete multistep syntheses working with nucleotides and metal catalysts, (B) a familiarity with the generation, manipulation and study of vesicles. 6) Experience in applying fundamental scientific and/or engineering concepts to complex, multidisciplinary problems. 7) A Ph.D. completed within the last 5 years in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field.

Desired Skills

A broad background and interest in different disciplines or the ability to apply fundamental concepts of one discipline to a variety of problems in other disciplines. Demonstrated experience in developing and characterizing advanced materials. Background and experience in characterization of chemical systems and materials including spectroscopy and a familiarity with instrumental techniques.

Education

A Ph.D. in chemistry or related field completed within last five years or soon to be completed is required.

Notes To Applicants

For further technical information, please contact James Boncella at boncella@lanl.gov.

Pre-Employment Drug Test

The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a pre-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing.

Government Conflict of Interest

To ensure that you and LANL avoid any potential conflicts of interest, all current/former Government Officials must read and respond, if applicable, to the LANL Applicant Disclosure Form.

Contact

For specific questions about the status of this job, call (505)665-6406