Embedded Files
Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Microsystems Fabrication
Wang Lab, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
Employer Description:
PI: TD Wang, MD,PhD, University of Michigan
The Wang Lab at the University of Michigan is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to design, fabricate, and characterize advanced microsystems scanning and actuation technologies for integration into next-generation miniature confocal, multi-photon, and photoacoustic endomicroscopes. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team working at the intersection of biomedical engineering, MEMS fabrication, and optical imaging. This position focuses on the development of monolithic 3-axis micro-actuators for high-speed beam scanning in ultra-compact optical imaging systems. Lead efforts to scale down device dimensions, optimize dynamic performance, and support multi-spectral, vertical-plane, and in vivo imaging with sub-cellular resolution. Work directly supports development of flexible, fiber-coupled endomicroscope accessories for deep tissue imaging in preclinical models and translational clinical applications. Collaborate with optical engineers to ensure alignment of optics and actuator within miniature imaging devices. Provide technical mentorship to graduate students involved in scanner development and integration.
Responsibilities:
· Design thin-film PZT micro-actuators for beam steering and axial translation.
· Perform silicon wafer fabrication, thin-film PZT deposition, and lithographic patterning.
· Execute deep reactive ion etching (DRIE) and XeF₂ etching.
· Develop finite element models to simulate mechanical displacement, scan angle, and resonance modes.
· Assemble multilayer micro-actuator stacks and integrate with optical components including reflectors, beam paths, and fiber optics.
· Measure device static and dynamic deflections, frequency response, and displacement.
· Develop calibration algorithms for real-time positional feedback using embedded piezoresistive sensors.
· Conduct lifetime and reliability testing of batch-fabricated devices.
Qualifications:
· PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.
· Experience in MEMS/NEMS fabrication, e.g. SOI wafers, comb-drive actuators, and wafer bonding.
· Proficient in microfabrication techniques, e.g. photolithography, thin-film deposition, and DRIE.
· Skilled in 3D MEMS design and characterization, including finite element modeling and CAD.
· Experience with optical system design, micro-optics alignment, profilometry, and optical metrology.
· Familiarity with feedback control systems and batch-scale prototyping for MEMS devices.
· Strong analytical, organizational, problem-solving, written, and verbal communication abilities.
· Proven publication record and ability to work both independently and in multidisciplinary teams.
Benefits:
· Access to cutting-edge research facilities and professional development opportunities.
· Salary commensurate with NIH guidelines and experience.
· Full-time, 12-month appointment, renewable based on performance and funding.
· Collaborative and supportive research environment.
Research environment: The University of Michigan is committed to equality in education and employment, and is an ideal training ground for postdocs who want to further develop their skills in pursuit of a career in academia or industry. The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity employer.
Lurie Nanofabrication Facility (LNF): The LNF is located on the University of Michigan’s Engineering Campus, and is a premier microfabrication center internationally recognized for research in microelectronics, MEMS, and optoelectronics. It supports advanced work in integrated sensors, compound semiconductors, automated manufacturing, and high-speed microwave devices. The facility includes a 6,000 sq. ft. Class 1000/100/10 cleanroom, a 10,000 sq. ft. teaching lab, and a testing suite for device characterization. Over 120 tools support 4″ and 6″ wafer processing, with capabilities spanning photolithography, oxidation/diffusion, RIE/DRIE, vacuum deposition, CVD, and molecular-beam epitaxy. An additional 2,500 sq. ft. HEPA-filtered area supports wet chemistry and bio/organic processing. LNF accommodates silicon, compound semiconductor, and organic material processing with features down to 10 nm, and includes dedicated bays for silicon, compound semiconductor, and thin-film fabrication, as well as Class 10 spaces for e-beam lithography and metrology. The facility is staffed by expert engineers and domain specialists who provide equipment support and technical guidance to users.
Wang Laboratory: Lab is ~2,000 sq. ft. wet lab includes 16 benches, desks, computers, and a full suite of equipment, including 4°C refrigerators, -20°C and -80°C freezers, water baths, balances, orbital shakers, microcentrifuges, refrigerated centrifuge, pH meter, brightfield and fluorescence microscopes, and a cell culture facility with 2 laminar flow hoods and CO₂ incubators. The lab also houses a dual-injector HPLC (Waters Breeze 2489), peptide synthesizer (Protein Technologies), and lyophilizer (FreeZone 4.5). Core BSRB facilities include an 800 sq. ft. tissue lab with microtome and histology capabilities, and a 250 sq. ft. imaging lab with a Zeiss LSM 510 inverted confocal microscope (488, 514, 633 nm lasers) and automated imaging for tissue microarrays. An adjacent freezer room has four -80°C freezers with automated alarms. The adjacent Center for Molecular Imaging provides advanced systems and support for small animal molecular imaging studies. Lab is located in the Biomedical Science Research Building (BSRB) on the University of Michigan medical campus near the main Michigan Medicine hospital.
Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, contact information for three references, and a statement of research interests to tdwangmd@gmail.com.
TD Wang, M.D.,Ph.D.
Professor of Medicine, Biomedical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering
H. Marvin Pollard Collegiate Professor of Endoscopy Research
University of Michigan
109 Zina Pitcher Pl. BSRB 1522
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
Email: tdwangmd@gmail.com
Report abuse