Postdoctoral Fellow - DNA Origami

School Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering

Department/Area: Postdoctoral Fellow

The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the imagination of academia and the focus of industry to translate ground‑breaking technologies into commercial products that solve big problems. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky. We prefer to use the word “challenging,” and we love challenges.

The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, seeks outstanding postdoctoral fellow applicants with expertise in biomolecular engineering or science to develop hierarchical self‑assembly of hundreds to thousands of distinct DNA origami into addressable microstructures, exploiting the principles of crisscross assembly innovated in our lab.

In addition to carrying out research, the successful candidate will be expected to apply for fellowship funding, contribute to the writing of grants and manuscripts, participate in teaching and mentoring of lab members as needed, and otherwise contribute to overall lab operations.

The applicant will be a collaborative, impact‑focused problem solver who wants to be part of a dynamic team.

Learn more about the innovative work led by Dr. William Shih at https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

• Develop hierarchical self‑assembly of hundreds to thousands of distinct DNA origami into addressable microstructures, exploiting the principles of crisscross assembly innovated in our lab. Potential applications include artificial extracellular matrices for regenerative medicine, breadboards for localized molecular computing, and nanophotonic devices.
• Present experimental results and project updates at internal meetings, and contribute to recommending next steps for experiments. Take an active role in strategy discussions related to projects.
• Maintain a high level of expertise through continuous engagement with scientific literature.

• Final date to receive applications:
  August 21, 2025.
• Duration:
  One‑year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension contingent upon work performance, business need, and continued funding.

• Position is salaried and benefits eligible. Salary ranges from $72,000 to $77,500 depending on years post‑PhD.
• Represented by the Harvard Academic Workers (HAW) – UAW for collective bargaining and compensation matters.
• Access to Harvard’s libraries, research core facilities, Wyss in‑house Clinical & Translational Research Core, and Machine Shop.
• Robust administrative and operational support for office and lab needs.
• Flexible work arrangements available for some administrative positions, dependent on Institute needs.
• Newly constructed office and laboratory space in Boston’s Fenway District with amenities such as a rooftop terrace, fitness center, locker room, bike storage, and proximity to restaurants and cultural attractions.

At the Wyss Institute, you’re part of a supportive, dynamic community united by a shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth through mentorship and tuition reimbursement for continued learning. Our state‑of‑the‑art facility is located in the lively Fenway neighborhood, offering a vibrant environment and amenities. We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, believing that our differences enrich the work environment for all.

• Hold a Ph.D.
• Ability to work independently and meet specific goals and milestones, while serving as part of a collaborative interdisciplinary team.

• Track record of innovative research in an academic or research setting.
• Exceptional organizational, technical writing abilities, and record‑keeping skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• A complete resume.
• Cover letter describing research interests and goals.
• Full…