Post-Doctoral Researcher, Specified Purpose, Hamilton Institute & Department of Computer Science, Maynooth University
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to work on the project Thermally-regulated Renewable and Automated DNA Computing Devices (TRAD), funded by Research Ireland. The position is under the direct supervision of Dr. Abeer Eshra and co-supervised by Prof. Damien Woods. It will be based at the Hamilton Institute with a possible co-appointment in the Department of Computer Science. The project combines theoretical and experimental approaches to develop renewable DNA computing devices that perform multiple computations in a single tube. The primary purpose is to regenerate automatically through temperature cycling and use DNA as a low-energy, sustainable medium for molecular computation and data storage.
The successful candidate will lead the design and modelling of thermally regulated DNA motifs and contribute to the development of an automated and renewable DNA computing prototype. The role encompasses both wet-lab and in silico work, including sequence design, data analysis, experimental planning, and writing publications. The postdoc will work closely with the PI and a PhD student.
An ideal candidate must hold, or be on the verge of holding, a PhD in a relevant field, such as DNA nanotechnology, computer science, bioengineering, synthetic biology, molecular self-assembly, physics, biology, or chemistry. You should demonstrate strong experimental skills or a background in modelling and analysis of molecular computation. Prior experience with DNA strand design or molecular computing is desirable.
You should be able to plan and execute your own research, engage in scientific discussions, and work as part of a collaborative team. You will publish high-quality research, mentor students, and contribute to future grant applications. We are seeking an individual who takes initiative, explores new ideas, and is eager to push the boundaries of renewable molecular computing.
Post-Doctoral Researcher Salary Scale: € 45,847 per annum (with increment)
Appointments will be made in accordance with public sector pay provisions.
Application Instructions
Closing Date:
23:30hrs (local Irish time) on Monday the 4th August 2025
Please note that all applications must be made via our Online Recruitment Portal at the following link:
https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/human-resources/vacancies
Applicants must submit a comprehensive CV, a research statement of no more than four pages, and a cover letter. The research statement should describe the applicant’s research vision, future plans, and how their background aligns with the project. The cover letter must address all role requirements listed in the job specification. The two documents may be combined, provided that all points are clearly addressed. Applications that are missing any of these documents or fail to address the role requirements will not be considered.
Applications must be submitted by the closing date and time specified above. Any applications still in progress at the closing time on the specified closing date will be automatically cancelled by the system.
Maynooth University is an equal opportunity employer.
The position is subject to the Statutes of the University.