Postdoc in immunology/ cell biology/ nano science

We are a highly interdisciplinary lab that studies biophysical mechanisms underlying the interaction of T cells and NK cells with the environment, using nanoengineered surfaces that provide the cells with controlled environmental cues. These surfaces include molecular-level patterns of activating and inhibitory ligands, which are used to reveal how their spatial distribution of these ligands regulate the inhibitory signaling (Science Advances, DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abc1640), as well as bottom-up nanofabricated surfaces for the study of mechanosensing of T cells and NK cells (Adv. Mater. 2019 doi.org/10.1002/adma.201805954 ; Adv. Funct. Mater. 2021 doi.org/10.1002/adfm.202103063 ; Nano Letters 2021 doi.org/10.1021/acs.nanolett.1c00245 ).

Our research focuses mainly on the fundamental mechanism of lymphocyte activation, yet, there are several ongoing projects aimed at developing new nanoscale systems for the ex-vivo T cell activation for immunotherapeutic application. Besides the independent research activity at the interface between nanomaterials and life science, the lab extensively collaborates with research groups in biophysics, cell biology, and immunology.

We are looking for an outstanding postdoc with a background in biophysics, life science, biomedicine, or immunology, who will explore the role of extracellular biophysical cues (spatial distribution of ligands, elasticity, nanotopography) on the signaling and immune response of T cells. The postdoc will lead the design of nanostructured surfaces for addressing basic questions in the biophysics of T cells, and the relevant biological experiments, including ex-vivo T cell activation assays. The position requires a profound understanding of T cell biology and proficiency in experimental cell biology, biomaterials, and high-resolution microscopy. Candidates with an interdisciplinary background that include nanoengineering, microfabrication, and biochemistry, are particularly encouraged to apply. The ability to work in an interdisciplinary research team that includes materials engineers and chemists is mandatory.

The Schvartzman lab is located at the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, a major university in Israel. The university provides a unique combination of young and vibrant research atmosphere with the most advanced research infrastructure and affordable cost of living. The applications should be sent to Prof. Mark Schvartzman ([email protected] ) and include a cover letter, CV, publication list, and contact information of three references.