Postdoc position in the filed of biofilm mechanics at Syracuse University

Postdoc Open Position

A postdoc position is available in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Syracuse University (SU). The research project, supported by NIH, aims to uncover the fundamental mechanics of preventing biofilm formation and fracturing biofilms with actively controlled surface topographies. The postdoc research associate will focus on the modeling and simulation aspects and closely collaborate with experimental groups at SU. The appointment will be 12 months, renewable based on performance and funding availability. 

Required Degree:

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.

Required Skills (at least one of the following two skills):

•        Continuum modeling and simulations of failure in soft materials: sufficient familiarity with large deformation viscoelasticity and fracture simulation techniques

•        Simulations of bacteria swimming under active fluid flow: sufficient familiarity with small scale fluid-structure interaction modeling and simulations

Preferred Optional Qualifications:

•        Experience with software on massively parallel computer systems (such as LAMMPS, GROMACS)

•        Familiarity with finite element simulation packages, such as ABAQUS, FEniCS, and MOOSE

•        Ability to work independently and multi-task effectively

•        Demonstrate understanding of projects from both technical and end-user perspectives

•        Excellent communication skills

•        Demonstrated leadership abilities and team player attitude

•        Strong attention to detail 

Interested candidates should send a cover letter, one-page research statement, CV, 3 representative publications and the contact information of at least three professional references to Dr. Teng Zhang at tzhang48@syr.edu.