MSc and PhD at the Interface of Synthetic Biology and Soft Matter Biophysics

Join Our Leading Research Team as an MSc or PhD!

We are looking for independent, motivated, and curious students from all engineering and exact science fields.

Description

The assembly of autonomous self-replicating artificial cells exhibiting the essential characteristics of life is one of the great contemporary scientific challenges. In our group, we develop experimental strategies to ultimately move toward the assembly of such artificial living systems (https://levy.net.technion.ac.il/).

As a general approach, we design biosynthetic platforms based on DNA chips and cell-free gene expression to mimic cellular processes on artificial systems (Levy et al., Science Advances 2020). Our platforms serve to develop innovative biotechnological and biomedical applications.

Available projects

• Reconstituting an autonomous and genetically programmed membrane division mechanism.

• Investigating transcriptional condensates on DNA biochips.

• Developing an optoelectronic “biolab-on-chip” enabling on-site synthesis and manipulation of bioproducts.

The research is strongly multidisciplinary, at the interface between synthetic biology, soft matter physics, biotechnology, and surface science. The Lab members are trained individually and learn techniques from molecular biology, fluorescence microscopy, microfluidics, microfabrication, lithography, and optoelectronics. The laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art automated systems to reach experimental robustness and high-throughput. Theoretical models are developed to complete our experimental approach.

Qualification for MSc/PhD/Postdoc

• A BSc/MSc in Biophysics, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or Engineering in any related field.

• Experience in molecular biology techniques, fluorescence microscopy, microfluidics, or cleanroom work is an advantage.

• Ability to work independently, as well as part of a multidisciplinary team, strong communication skills, critical thinking, perseverance, and a high degree of motivation and creativity.

Application

Apply by email to Dr. Michael Levy ([email protected]).

Please include CV with a list of publications and two references.

Good luck!