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Title Postdoctoral Fellow - DNA Nanostructures

School Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering

Department/Area

Position Description

About the Wyss:

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. For more information, discover our technologies (https://wyss.harvard.edu/technologies/) , catch up on our recent news (https://wyss.harvard.edu/news/) , or watch our latest videos (https://wyss.harvard.edu/multimedia/) .

About this Role:

The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University seeks outstanding postdoctoral fellow applicants with expertise in biomolecular engineering or science to develop enzyme-free ultrasensitive detection of analytes using DNA nanostructures.

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.

Information about the Shih Lab: Learn more about the innovative work led by Dr. William Shih here: https://www.shih.hms.harvard.edu/.

What you’ll do:

+ Develop DNA -based sensors that seed crisscross assembly of single-stranded DNA building blocks, innovated in our lab. This will be used for ultrasensitive detection of analytes such as proteins, nucleic acids, and other molecules.

+ 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.

Additional Information:

+ We encourage candidates to apply by January 5, 2026.

+ Duration: This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance, business need, and continued funding to support the position.

Salary and Benefits:

+ This position is salaried and benefits eligible. Information regarding postdoctoral fellow salary, which is determined by the number of years post PhD, and benefits can be found at https://postdoc.hms.harvard.edu/guidelines.

+ With this appointment, you are represented by the Harvard Academic Workers ( HAW ) – UAW for purposes of collective bargaining and matters affecting your compensation and working conditions.

+ Access to Harvard’s libraries and research core facilities, as well as support from the Wyss’s in-house Clinical & Translational Research Core and Machine Shop. (https://wyss.harvard.edu/news/a-look-inside-the-wyss-machine-shop/)

+ Robust administrative and operational support for office and lab needs.

+ Availability of flexible work arrangements for some administrative positions dependent on Institute needs.

+ Newly constructed office and laboratory space in Boston’s Fenway District. Our space has multiple amenities which include: roof top terrace, fitness center, locker room, bike storage, and close proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions.

Why you’ll like working with us:

At the Wyss Institute, you’re a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. Our facility is located in a new, state-of-the-art life sciences building in the lively Fenway neighborhood, where you have access to multiple amenities including a roof top terrace with stunning views of Boston and proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions. We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all.

Basic Qualifications

What you’ll Need:

+ Applicants are expected to hold a Ph.D.

+ Ability to work in an independent manner and meet specific goals and milestones, but serve as part of a collaborative interdisciplinary team.

Additional Qualifications

Desirable Skills:

+ 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.

Special Instructions

Applications should contain:

+ A complete resume.

+ Cover letter describing research interests and goals.

+ Full list of publications, and copies of up to three relevant scientific papers.

+ Names and contact information of three references (expected to provide letters of recommendation).

Contact Information

Wyss Institute Academic Affairs

[email protected]

Contact Email [email protected]

Salary Range

Starting Salary of $72,000 to $ 77,500 depending on experience

Minimum Number of References Required

Maximum Number of References Allowed

Keywords

Molecular robotics, Characterization of Biomolecules, Biotechnology, DNA origami, DNA Nanostructures

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity (https://hr.harvard.edu/sites/g/files/omnuum6281/files/2025-04/reaffirmation\_statement.pdf) policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non-discrimination policy (https://provost.harvard.edu/sites/g/files/omnuum3356/files/2025-07/non-discrimination\_and\_anti-bullying\_policies.pdf) . Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Supplemental Questions