Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Tai Lab, LSA BioPhysics

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Questions can be directed to Professor Tai at jstai.

The Tai Lab is currently recruiting for a postdoctoral research fellow position in the Department of Biophysics. This is a one-year appointment starting no later than 07/01/2027. The initial appointment as a Research Fellow is for one year with the possibility of renewal, contingent upon satisfactory performance, availability of work, and the availability of funding.

The Tai Lab's research focuses on bacterial biofilms or aggregates of bacterial cells in an extracellular matrix. From the unique perspectives of microbiology, soft matter physics, and ecology, Dr. Tai aims to decipher how, at the single bacteria cell level, heterogeneities in cell shape, organization, and gene expression constitute the function and development of their collective communities: biofilms.

The Tai Lab investigates how bacterial cells build complex, resilient communities - biofilms- that play important roles in health and industry. We aim to understand how these communities develop, function, and evolve by bringing together perspectives from biology, physics, ecology and evolution, and engineering. Our approaches include quantitative single-cell imaging, microfluidics, bacterial genetics, systems biology, and modeling.

Key questions we are excited to explore include:

• How do cells integrate information and make decisions that vary across cells and over time?
• How do cellular properties and physical interactions shape biofilm architecture and mechanics?
• How do social interactions shape microbial competition and evolution?
• How do microbial communities respond to and reshape their environments?

As an early member of the lab, you will have the opportunity to help shape its research directions and culture. We welcome researchers who bring new perspectives and share an enthusiasm for working across disciplines.

The successful candidate will develop and carry out independent and collaborative research on the development, organization, function, and evolution of microbial communities. Projects may involve quantitative single-cell imaging, microfluidics, bacterial genetics, systems biology, biophysical measurements, and/or computational modeling, depending on the candidate's expertise and research interests. Responsibilities include designing and conducting experiments and/or developing theoretical and computational approaches; quantitatively analyzing and interpreting data;

maintaining accurate research records; preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication; and communicating findings through scientific presentations. The fellow will participate actively in lab discussions, contribute to the development of new research approaches and collaborations, and help mentor undergraduate and graduate researchers.

Ph.D. in biophysics, physics, quantitative biology, microbiology, engineering, systems biology, or a related field is required. Proof of degree must be in hand on or before the appointment start date.

Applicants should have demonstrated research experience in biophysics, quantitative biology, microbiology, soft-matter physics, microscopy, or a related area, along with the ability to conduct independent and collaborative research. Strong organizational, interpersonal, communication, and scientific writing skills are expected.

Experience in one or more of the lab's research approaches is welcome; applicants are not expected to have experience in all of these areas. We are particularly interested in researchers whose expertise could complement or expand the lab's directions.

During your Research Fellowship at the University of Michigan, you will be based on the Ann Arbor campus. An on-campus presence is expected, which includes attending and participating in departmental seminars and events.

One year appointment
Renewal possible based on the availability of funds, availability of work and performance

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