Postdoctoral Position in Biodegradable Polymer Science and Synthetic Biology at University of California, San Diego

The Pokorski Lab at the University of California, San Diego is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join their interdisciplinary team at the interface of polymer science and synthetic biology. The research focuses on developing biodegradable polymer systems by programming microbial spores to selectively degrade plastics, integrating genetic engineering, synthetic biology, polymer synthesis, and materials characterization. The successful candidate will design and engineer biological systems that interface with next-generation polymer materials to address global plastic waste challenges. Applicants must hold a PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Bioengineering, Synthetic Biology, or a related field, with strong experience in genetic engineering. Preferred qualifications include experience in polymer synthesis and/or polymer manufacturing, familiarity with polymer characterization techniques, and the ability to work in interdisciplinary research environments. Candidates should not have completed a prior postdoctoral appointment. Application materials should include a cover letter describing research experience and career goals, a curriculum vitae (CV), and contact information for three professional references. All materials should be sent as a single PDF to [email protected] with the subject line 'Biocomposite Postdoctoral Position'. The position offers the opportunity to work in a highly collaborative environment with strong mentorship and potential for high-impact publication. For more information about the lab and research interests, visit the supervisor's academic and LinkedIn profiles.