Postdoctoral Fellow - mRNA - LNP, Mechanical Engineering in Cockrell School of Engineering

A postdoctoral fellow in the Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin will lead research linking the internal structure of mRNA lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to key biological metrics and establish design principles that improve their therapeutic performance. Responsibilities include LNP assembly and characterisation with partners, small-angle scattering and soft-matter characterisation, data analysis, modelling and design-rule development, mentoring graduate and undergraduate students, and scientific writing and presentation.

The appointment is expected to continue until 31 December 2027; salary $63,537.

PhD in materials science, chemical engineering, polymer science, chemistry, physics or a related field received within the past three years; experience in small-angle scattering, soft-matter characterisation and/or physical chemistry of lipid, polymer or biological materials; preferred: hands-on SAXS (lab or synchrotron) and analysis software, experience with LNPs, liposomes or polymersomes.