276 Postdoctoral Research Fellow jobs in Nairobi
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Nairobi, Nairobi
KES40000 - KES60000 Y
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)
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Job Description
Background:
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) invites applications for the internationally recruited position of
Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Biotechnological Innovations for Red Palm Weevil Control.
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is a not-for-profit institution that generates agricultural innovations to meet Africa's most pressing challenges of hunger, malnutrition, poverty, and natural resource degradation. Working with various partners across sub-Saharan Africa, we improve livelihoods, enhance food and nutrition security, increase employment, and preserve natural resource integrity. IITA is a member of CGIAR, a global agriculture research partnership for a food-secure future. Please visit for more information on IITA.
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), as part of the
Consortium for Red Palm Weevil Control (C4RPWC)
- a global, multi-institutional program led by ICARDA- is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to contribute to innovative, science-driven solutions against the Red Palm Weevil (RPW). RPW
(Rhynchophorus ferrugineus)
, one of the most destructive invasive pests worldwide, poses a grave threat to date, coconut, and oil palm cultivation. Since the 1980s, it has caused catastrophic economic losses, degraded ecosystems, and undermined the livelihoods of farming communities across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond. With its rapidspread into Sub-Saharan Africa and its adaptability to multiple palm species, RPW jeopardizes food security, biodiversity, and industries valued at over $20-30 billion globally.
This postdoctoral position offers an opportunity to advance cutting-edge biotechnological innovations, such as RNA interference (RNAi) and gene editing, that will contribute to scalable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly solutions to protect palms, rural livelihoods, and ecosystems.
Position Responsibilities
The
Post-Doctoral Fellow
will be responsible for developing and executing biotechnological strategies, including RNAi and gene editing for controlling RPW, working closely with internal research teams, external partners, and stakeholders within the C4RPWC program. The successful candidate will report to the Lead of the Biotechnology Program at IITA. The tasks will include:
- Design, conduct, and optimize laboratory and field experiments on RNA interference (RNAi)-based pest control strategies, including both direct applications (e.g., dsRNA nanoparticles, injections) and plant-expressed dsRNA systems
- Develop a transformation and gene editing system for date palm, African palm, and sugarcane
- Generate gene-edited events with enhanced resistance against RPW infestations
- Develop and validate molecular and genomic tools for monitoring efficacy, insect resistance, and environmental safety
- Collect, analyse, and interpret molecular, genetic, and ecological data related to RPW control interventions
- Conduct bioinformatic analyses of RPW genomes, transcriptomes, and gene targets relevant to RNAi and gene editing
- Collaborate with international, multi-disciplinary teams across C4RPWC partner institutions
- Provide technical guidance and training to graduate students, technicians, and national program partners in molecular entomology and biotechnology
- Contribute to building local capacity for biotechnology-based pest management in partner countries
- Support the coordination and monitoring of IITA's contributions to the RPW control program
- Prepare high-quality research outputs, including peer-reviewed publications and technical briefs
- Prepare progress reports, presentations, and knowledge-sharing materials for donors, partners, and stakeholders
- Engage in outreach and science communication to demonstrate program impact on livelihoods, ecosystems, and sustainable pest management
- Explore novel delivery platforms for biotechnological control agents with emphasis on scalability and field applicability
- Coordinate the regulatory compliance and stewardship for the project
- Support the development of grant proposals to secure funding for further research in gene editing and manage research projects effectively
- Actively participate in monthly meetings, annual reviews, and planning meetings and contribute to strategic research planning
- Host visitors, donors, and collaborators, providing lab tours and discussing the project's progress
- Adhere to institutional policies and perform additional tasks as required
Requirements
Educational Qualifications
The candidate should have a Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field with a focus on gene editing technologies. Experience in plant molecular biology, plant engineering, or plant biotechnology, with demonstrated experience in gene editing and RNAi.
Core Competencies
- Research Excellence:
- Deep understanding of RNAi and gene editing and their application in crop improvement
- Proficiency in molecular techniques, including vector design, cloning, PCR, and sequencing
- Strong experience in plant tissue culture and genetic transformation
- Excellent data analysis and bioinformatics skills
- Innovation: Ability to develop novel approaches to genetic engineering and problem-solving
- Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams and external partners
- Communication: Skilled in disseminating research outcomes to scientific audiences
- Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage the project
- Writing Skills: Proven track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals
Benefits
General information:
The contract will be for an initial period of two years. IITA offers an internationally competitive remuneration package paid in US Dollars.
Applications:
Applications must include a cover letter which should address how the candidate's background/experience relates to the specific duties of the position applied for, curriculum vitae, and names and addresses of three professional referees (which must include either the Head of the applicant's current or previous organization or applicant's direct Supervisor/Superior at his/her present or former place of work). The application should be addressed to the Director, People and Culture. Please complete our online application form using this link:
Closing Date:
10th October 2025
IITA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse workforce, particularly welcoming applications from women.
While all applications will be acknowledged, please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
.
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Senior Research Scientist - Materials Science
Posted 6 days ago
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Our client, a leading innovator in Scientific Research & Development, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Research Scientist specializing in Materials Science to join their esteemed, fully remote research team. This role is central to driving groundbreaking advancements in the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of novel materials. You will lead research initiatives, conceptualize new projects, and contribute significantly to the scientific output of the organization. The ideal candidate possesses a Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field, with a proven track record of independent research and publications. Your expertise will span areas such as polymer science, nanotechnology, metallurgy, or advanced ceramics, depending on the specific needs of ongoing projects. Responsibilities include designing and conducting experiments, analyzing complex data, interpreting results, and contributing to the development of intellectual property. Collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers will be a key aspect of this role, requiring excellent communication and teamwork skills. This remote position offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to conduct high-level research from your chosen location while engaging with a world-class scientific community. You will be responsible for proposing new research directions, securing funding for projects (where applicable), and mentoring junior researchers. A deep understanding of materials characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy) and theoretical modeling is highly desirable. We are looking for a visionary scientist with a passion for discovery and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of materials science. Your ability to translate fundamental research into potential applications will be highly valued. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of materials innovation in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating remote environment.
Responsibilities:
Responsibilities:
- Lead independent research projects in materials science.
- Design, conduct, and analyze experiments related to material synthesis and characterization.
- Develop novel materials with tailored properties for specific applications.
- Publish research findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals.
- Present research at national and international conferences.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate research into potential products.
- Mentor junior researchers and provide scientific guidance.
- Stay current with the latest advancements and trends in materials science.
- Contribute to the development of intellectual property and patent applications.
- Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.
- 7+ years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in materials science.
- Demonstrated expertise in at least one area of materials science (e.g., polymers, ceramics, metals, nanomaterials).
- Proficiency in various materials characterization techniques.
- Strong publication record and presentation experience.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
- Effective communication and collaboration abilities.
- Proven ability to conduct independent research and manage projects remotely.
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1
Principal Research Scientist, Biomedical Engineering
Posted 4 days ago
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Our client is looking for a highly innovative and experienced Principal Research Scientist in Biomedical Engineering to lead cutting-edge research and development projects within a fully remote capacity. This senior role demands a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering or a closely related field, with a minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral research experience focused on developing novel medical devices, diagnostic tools, or therapeutic technologies. You will be responsible for conceptualizing research strategies, designing and conducting experiments, analyzing complex data, and publishing findings in high-impact journals. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of biomaterials, biomechanics, signal processing, or medical imaging, depending on the specific research focus. Proven experience in leading research teams, securing funding (e.g., grant writing), and managing intellectual property is essential. Exceptional problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills are required to collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and clinicians. This is a remote-first position, allowing you to conduct groundbreaking research from your home office, contributing to advancements in healthcare that could impact patients and research institutions globally, including those in the scientific community around Mombasa, Mombasa, KE . You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of medical technology and driving innovation that addresses significant unmet clinical needs. We are seeking a visionary leader with a passion for scientific discovery and a commitment to translating research into tangible improvements in patient care.
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2
Remote Lead Scientist - Biomedical Research
Posted 15 days ago
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Our client, a cutting-edge biomedical research institution, is seeking an accomplished and innovative Lead Scientist to spearhead critical research projects within their dynamic, fully remote scientific team. This high-impact role is dedicated to advancing our understanding of complex diseases and developing novel therapeutic strategies. Working remotely, you will lead a team of researchers, design and execute sophisticated experiments, analyze complex datasets, and publish findings in leading peer-reviewed journals. You will be at the forefront of scientific discovery, leveraging advanced methodologies and state-of-the-art virtual collaboration tools to achieve groundbreaking results. The ability to conceptualize, lead, and execute research initiatives independently is key.
Key Responsibilities:
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and mentor a team of postdoctoral fellows, research assistants, and technicians in a remote setting.
- Design, develop, and implement cutting-edge research projects in areas such as oncology, infectious diseases, or neurobiology.
- Oversee experimental design, data collection, and rigorous data analysis.
- Secure research funding through competitive grant applications and collaborations.
- Publish research findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed scientific journals.
- Present research outcomes at international scientific conferences and internal meetings.
- Collaborate with internal and external collaborators, including industry partners, to advance research objectives.
- Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety protocols, ethical guidelines, and regulatory requirements.
- Manage research budgets, equipment, and resources effectively.
- Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and methodologies in the relevant field.
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3
Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist (Biochemistry)
Posted 20 days ago
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Our client, a dynamic and innovative pharmaceutical company, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist specializing in Biochemistry to join their pioneering, fully remote research and development team. This pivotal role will focus on discovering and developing novel therapeutic agents for unmet medical needs. You will be instrumental in designing, executing, and interpreting complex biochemical assays, conducting mechanism-of-action studies, and contributing to the preclinical development of drug candidates. Your responsibilities will include identifying and validating new biological targets, exploring small molecule and biologics approaches, and collaborating extensively with medicinal chemists, pharmacologists, and biologists across the organization. This is a remote-first position, allowing you to leverage your expertise from anywhere while contributing to cutting-edge drug discovery projects. You will play a key role in advancing promising compounds from early-stage research through to lead optimization. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of molecular pathways, enzyme kinetics, protein-protein interactions, and bioanalytical techniques. Your ability to analyze complex datasets, draw robust conclusions, and communicate findings effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences will be crucial for success. We are looking for a proactive individual with a passion for scientific innovation and a drive to make a significant impact on patient lives.
Responsibilities:
Qualifications:
Responsibilities:
- Design and conduct in vitro biochemical and cellular assays to evaluate drug candidates.
- Investigate the mechanism of action of novel therapeutic compounds.
- Identify and validate new drug targets using a range of biochemical and molecular biology techniques.
- Develop and optimize bioanalytical methods for quantifying drug and target engagement.
- Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, presenting findings and recommendations.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and DMPK.
- Contribute to the preparation of regulatory documents and scientific publications.
- Manage multiple research projects simultaneously, ensuring timely progress and high-quality results.
- Stay current with scientific literature and emerging technologies in drug discovery and biochemistry.
- Mentor junior scientists and contribute to a collaborative research environment.
Qualifications:
- PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or a closely related field.
- Minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral research experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
- Extensive experience in assay development, enzyme kinetics, protein purification, and characterization.
- Strong understanding of molecular biology techniques, cell-based assays, and signaling pathways.
- Proven track record of successful drug discovery contributions, evidenced by publications or patents.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a meticulous attention to detail.
- Superb written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a globally distributed, remote team.
- Experience with biostatistics and data analysis software.
- Demonstrated ability to think creatively and innovatively.
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Research Scientist - Bioinformatics
Posted 20 days ago
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Job Description
Our client, a leader in computational biology and health research, is seeking a talented and innovative Research Scientist specializing in Bioinformatics. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while contributing to cutting-edge scientific discoveries. You will be responsible for analyzing large-scale biological datasets, developing novel computational methods, and collaborating with experimental biologists to interpret results. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in computational biology, statistics, and programming, with a passion for uncovering insights from complex biological data. This role requires excellent analytical skills, proficiency in programming languages, and the ability to communicate complex findings effectively.
Key Responsibilities:
Key Responsibilities:
- Analyze diverse biological datasets, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics data.
- Develop, implement, and validate bioinformatics pipelines and algorithms for data analysis.
- Utilize statistical methods and machine learning techniques to identify patterns and derive biological insights.
- Collaborate closely with experimental scientists to design studies, interpret results, and contribute to manuscript preparation.
- Contribute to the development of new research hypotheses and experimental strategies.
- Manage and organize large biological datasets, ensuring data integrity and reproducibility.
- Develop custom scripts and software tools to support research needs.
- Stay current with the latest advancements in bioinformatics, computational biology, and relevant biological fields.
- Present research findings at scientific meetings and contribute to publications in peer-reviewed journals.
- Participate in grant writing efforts to secure funding for research projects.
- Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.
- Minimum of 4-6 years of relevant research experience in bioinformatics or computational biology.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and R, with experience in relevant libraries (e.g., Biopython, NumPy, SciPy, ggplot2).
- Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) data analysis.
- Solid understanding of statistical methods and machine learning algorithms.
- Familiarity with Unix/Linux operating systems and command-line tools.
- Experience with database management and query languages (e.g., SQL).
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment.
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5
Lead Research Scientist
Posted 20 days ago
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Job Description
Our client is seeking an accomplished Lead Research Scientist to spearhead groundbreaking research initiatives in a fully remote setting. This role is pivotal for driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery within their organization. The Lead Research Scientist will be responsible for designing and executing complex research projects, analyzing data, and interpreting findings to inform strategic direction. You will lead a team of researchers, providing mentorship, guidance, and technical expertise. Key responsibilities include developing research methodologies, preparing grant proposals, and publishing scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals.
The ideal candidate will possess a Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science) with a proven track record of independent research and publication. Extensive experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing is paramount. Strong leadership and project management skills are essential for guiding research teams and ensuring project success. You will be expected to stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements in your field and identify opportunities for novel research.
This is a remote-first opportunity, demanding exceptional communication, collaboration, and self-management skills. You must be able to work effectively within a virtual team environment. Responsibilities will also include developing and validating new research techniques, presenting findings at scientific conferences, and contributing to the intellectual property portfolio of the company. A minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral research experience is required. Familiarity with relevant laboratory techniques, advanced statistical analysis, and computational modeling is highly advantageous. If you are a visionary scientist with a passion for pushing the boundaries of knowledge, we invite you to apply and lead transformative research efforts for our client.
The ideal candidate will possess a Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science) with a proven track record of independent research and publication. Extensive experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing is paramount. Strong leadership and project management skills are essential for guiding research teams and ensuring project success. You will be expected to stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements in your field and identify opportunities for novel research.
This is a remote-first opportunity, demanding exceptional communication, collaboration, and self-management skills. You must be able to work effectively within a virtual team environment. Responsibilities will also include developing and validating new research techniques, presenting findings at scientific conferences, and contributing to the intellectual property portfolio of the company. A minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral research experience is required. Familiarity with relevant laboratory techniques, advanced statistical analysis, and computational modeling is highly advantageous. If you are a visionary scientist with a passion for pushing the boundaries of knowledge, we invite you to apply and lead transformative research efforts for our client.
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6
Principal Research Scientist - Genomics
Posted 14 days ago
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Our client is seeking a highly accomplished and innovative Principal Research Scientist specializing in Genomics to join their pioneering remote research team. This position is fully remote, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific discoveries from the comfort of your home office. You will lead complex research projects, design and execute cutting-edge experiments, analyze large genomic datasets, and publish findings in high-impact scientific journals. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of molecular biology, bioinformatics, and advanced statistical methods.
Responsibilities:
Responsibilities:
- Design, direct, and execute novel research projects in genomics and related fields.
- Develop and optimize advanced genomic analysis pipelines and methodologies.
- Analyze and interpret large-scale genomic datasets (e.g., whole-genome sequencing, RNA-Seq, epigenomics) using bioinformatics tools and statistical modeling.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of scientists, bioinformaticians, and statisticians to advance research objectives.
- Prepare and present research findings at international conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
- Secure external funding through grant writing and proposal development.
- Mentor and supervise junior scientists and research staff.
- Contribute to the strategic direction of the research division and identify new areas of scientific inquiry.
- Maintain meticulous laboratory notebooks and research records in a digital format.
- Stay abreast of the latest advancements in genomics, bioinformatics, and related scientific disciplines.
- Participate in virtual journal clubs, seminars, and collaborative working groups.
- Ph.D. in Genetics, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, or a closely related field.
- Minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral research experience in genomics.
- Demonstrated track record of leading independent research projects and securing funding.
- Extensive experience with various next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies and platforms.
- Proficiency in programming languages relevant to bioinformatics (e.g., Python, R, Perl) and statistical analysis.
- Expertise in using bioinformatics tools and databases for genomic data analysis.
- Strong publication record in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for remote collaboration and scientific dissemination.
- Proven ability to mentor and lead research teams effectively.
- Experience with computational biology and machine learning applied to biological data is highly advantageous.
- Ability to work autonomously and manage multiple research projects concurrently in a remote setting.
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7
Lead Research Scientist - Bioinformatics
Posted 18 days ago
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Job Description
Our client, a cutting-edge research institution, is seeking a highly accomplished Lead Research Scientist specializing in Bioinformatics to join their innovative, fully remote team. This role is central to driving groundbreaking research initiatives, analyzing complex biological data, and developing novel computational methods. You will lead projects focused on genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and other high-throughput data analysis. Your responsibilities will include designing and implementing sophisticated algorithms, managing large-scale datasets, and interpreting results to generate actionable insights. The ideal candidate will possess a Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, or a related field, coupled with extensive post-doctoral or industry experience. Strong programming skills in Python, R, or similar languages are essential, along with experience in machine learning and statistical modeling. You will also be expected to mentor junior scientists, contribute to grant proposals, and publish findings in leading scientific journals. This is a remote-first opportunity, requiring exceptional self-discipline, proactive communication, and the ability to thrive in a virtual collaborative environment. You will play a key role in advancing our client's mission to push the boundaries of scientific discovery. We are looking for a visionary leader with a passion for data-driven research and a proven ability to translate complex biological questions into computational solutions. The ability to work independently, manage multiple research streams, and effectively present findings to both technical and non-technical audiences is crucial for success in this demanding role. This position is based in **Mombasa, Mombasa, KE**, but is entirely remote.
Responsibilities:
Responsibilities:
- Lead and conduct advanced bioinformatics research projects.
- Develop and apply computational methods for biological data analysis.
- Manage and analyze large genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic datasets.
- Collaborate with biologists and other researchers to interpret findings.
- Mentor junior scientists and contribute to team development.
- Author research papers and present findings at conferences.
- Contribute to grant writing and funding applications.
- Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or a related field.
- Proven experience in leading research projects.
- Expertise in programming (Python, R) and statistical analysis.
- Strong knowledge of machine learning and data mining techniques.
- Experience with high-throughput sequencing data analysis.
- Excellent scientific writing and presentation skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote setting.
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8
Lead Research Scientist - Biomaterials
Posted 6 days ago
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Job Description
Our client, a pioneering force in scientific innovation, is seeking an accomplished Lead Research Scientist specializing in Biomaterials to join their groundbreaking research initiatives. This is a fully remote position, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to advanced scientific endeavors without geographical constraints. You will be at the forefront of discovering and developing novel biomaterials for diverse applications, potentially including medical devices, regenerative medicine, and advanced diagnostics. Your responsibilities will involve designing and executing complex research projects, analyzing experimental data using sophisticated techniques, and interpreting results to guide future research directions. A critical aspect of this role is mentoring junior scientists, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment, and contributing to the intellectual property portfolio through patent applications and publications. The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field, with at least 8 years of post-doctoral research experience, specifically in biomaterials science. Demonstrable expertise in the synthesis, characterization, and application of advanced biomaterials is mandatory. Proficiency in a range of characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, AFM, XRD, FTIR, NMR) and biological assay development is essential. Experience with computational modeling and simulation of material properties and interactions is highly desirable. Proven track record of leading research projects, securing grant funding, and publishing in high-impact journals is expected. Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are paramount for this remote leadership role. You must be highly self-motivated, possess strong organizational abilities, and be capable of working independently while effectively collaborating with a global team. This position requires a visionary scientist eager to push the boundaries of biomaterial science and make a tangible impact on future technologies.
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