University of Maryland at College Park
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Postdoctoral Associate in Cell-Based Artificial Nose, Molecular Biology, and Olfactory Biosensing University of Maryland, College Park in United States
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Molecular Biology
Funding
Full-time postdoctoral employment with a stated salary range of $75,000–$90,000 and regular faculty benefits. The project is funded through the NSF Emerging Frontiers in Research and Innovation: Engineered Living Systems program. The position is expected to be based primarily at NARO in Japan for 10–11 months per year and at the University of Maryland for 1–2 months per year.
Deadline
Nov 15, 2026
Country
United States
University
University of Maryland at College Park
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About this position
The University of Maryland, College Park is recruiting a postdoctoral scientist for a collaborative biomolecular research project involving the Laboratory for MicroTechnologies, the Neurobiology Lab, and the Anhydrobiosis Research Group at Japan’s National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences (NARO).
The project aims to develop a cell-based artificial nose, or e-nose, using engineered biological systems. The technology is intended to support applications including medical diagnostics, agriculture, food and perfume industries, and public safety. The postdoctoral researcher will work primarily at NARO in Tsukuba, Japan, while collaborating with researchers at UMD.
Research activities will include designing and constructing expression vectors for gene editing, optimizing the introduction of olfactory receptor genes and genetically encoded fluorescent sensors into cell lines, and characterizing odor responses through imaging techniques. The researcher may also contribute to portable artificial-olfaction devices that use machine learning to identify odorant signatures.
The role offers opportunities to participate in research design, international collaboration, scientific manuscript preparation, conference presentations, intellectual property protection, data management, and the broader scholarly activities of both laboratories. The research is supported by the NSF Emerging Frontiers in Research and Innovation: Engineered Living Systems program.
Funding details
Full-time postdoctoral employment with a stated salary range of $75,000–$90,000 and regular faculty benefits. The project is funded through the NSF Emerging Frontiers in Research and Innovation: Engineered Living Systems program. The position is expected to be based primarily at NARO in Japan for 10–11 months per year and at the University of Maryland for 1–2 months per year.
What's required
Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in cellular or molecular biology or a related field and have experience with modern molecular biology techniques, including cloning and expression systems, CRISPR-based genome editing, and functional assays. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States on their first day and authorized to work as a visiting scientist in Japan within two months of starting. Preferred qualifications include cell culture, creation of stable cell lines, microfluidics, successful heterologous gene expression, and fluorescence imaging experience. Required application materials are a cover letter, CV, list of references, and research statement.
How to apply
Apply through the University of Maryland Workday posting. Submit a cover letter, CV, list of references, and research statement. The position is open until filled, with best consideration by November 15, 2026.
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Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.