Postdoctoral Researchers

POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS IN NEUROSCIENCE AND CHEMICAL ENGINEERING The Laboratory of NanoEngineering (Yanik Lab) at the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC), Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, invites applications for two postdoctoral positions in cutting-edge research fields. These positions offer a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of system-on-a-particle neurophotonic probes for electrophysiological recordings in live animals. This work is part of an ambitious, interdisciplinary project to advance next-generation brain-computer interfaces in collaboration with industry partner Subsense, Inc.Subsense's mission is to revolutionize the field of brain-computer interface by taking a new, nanomaterials focused approach. Researchers in these positions will be able to work closely with Subsense personnel and will gain experience in startup R&D activities and product development.Position SummariesPostdoctoral Position in Neuroengineering: This role focuses on the design and development of opticaland electrochemical measurement systems, along with the validation of neurophotonic probes inelectrophysiological studies using cell cultures and small animal models.Required Expertise:• Neural electrophysiology and biology• Dissection and culture of CNS and PNS cells from rodents• Optical imaging techniques and small animal testing• Electrochemical sensing protocols (preferred but not required)Postdoctoral Position in Chemical Engineering and Nanoparticles: This role involves synthesizing and functionalizing colloidal plasmonic nanoparticles with polymers. Candidates for this position are not required to have electrophysiology or neuroscience experience.Required Expertise:• Colloidal nanoparticle synthesis• Solution-based polymer chemistry (preferred but not required)• Micro/nano-fabrication (preferred but not required)Both positions are embedded in a highly interdisciplinary research environment with close collaborations across the W. M. Keck Center for Nanoscale Optofluidics, the California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), and the UCSC Materials Science and Engineering Initiative.Role Benefits and ExpectationsThe successful candidates will:Conduct novel, high-impact research that contributes to milestone advancements in neuroscienceReceive hands-on training in advanced experimental methodologies and techniques.Develop skills in mentoring graduate students.Build a strong foundation for future career opportunities through interdisciplinary collaboration.Compensation is competitive and includes an excellent benefits package. Candidates must demonstrate:Strong written and verbal communication skills.The ability to collaborate across disciplines.Independent, motivated, and creative thinking in multidisciplinary research.Interested candidates should submit the following materials:A full CV.A list of three references.A single-page cover letter addressing relevant expertise & skills as listed above with long-term goals.2-3 representative publications.Contact InformationProf. Ali A. YanikDepartment of Electrical and Computer EngineeringUniversity of California, Santa CruzSanta Cruz, CA 95064Website:

Created: 2025-03-04