We are currently seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the University of Surrey and work in Dr Isabella Guido's research group for a 2.5‑year project funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
The project aims to investigate how physical forces and collective dynamics lead to deformation and shape changes of biological systems by using biomimetic networks of reconstituted microtubules and motor proteins. These active networks will be designed to mimic the dynamic behaviour of the cellular cytoskeleton and provide a unique model system to explore how active stresses generated by microtubules and motor proteins at the nanoscale scale up and are collectively transmitted to the mesoscale. By encapsulating the active networks in a cell-like compartment, this system will enable us to investigate the mechanical principles underlying symmetry breaking and morphological changes in cells.
The interdisciplinary project involves experimental work spanning active matter physics, membrane biophysics, and microfluidics. The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. Isabella Guido and academic collaborators from Paris‑Saclay University, and Kyoto University. The candidate will develop and apply experimental and imaging techniques to characterise the pattern formation and mechanical deformation of the reconstituted active networks within confined, cell‑like environments.
The post is ideally suited to a candidate with a strong interest in experimental biological physics, reconstitution of life‑like systems made of biopolymers, and microfluidic technologies.
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