We are always looking for highly motivated researchers interested in tackling challenges in the fields of biophysics, soft and active matter physics, and bioengineering. Our lab offers an excellent and collaborative working environment within the highly international research community at the Institute of Physics, Academia Sinica, in Taipei, Taiwan. The Institute of Physics hosts over 350 researchers and staff, and is home to the Physics of Active and Living Matter (PALM) section, which currently includes 9 PIs, including the Sakamoto Lab.

Academia Sinica, founded in 1928, is Taiwan’s premier national research institution. It comprises 24 institutes and 9 research centers across three major divisions: Mathematics and Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Humanities and Social Sciences. With a community of over 8,000 research fellows, technicians, assistants, and administrative staff, Academia Sinica is one of the few institutions worldwide that integrates science, technology, and the humanities under one umbrella.

We welcome applications from postdoctoral candidates with a PhD in biophysics, biochemistry, soft and active matter physics, bioengineering, or any related field. Fluency in English in a research environment is required. Please send a cover letter, CV, publication list, and the contact information of two references to Ryota Sakamoto. Your cover letter should briefly describe your past and current research interests, as well as your motivation for joining our group. For any questions, feel free to contact Ryota Sakamoto directly.

Several fellowships are available for postdoctoral researchers. We actively encourage and support applications for competitive international fellowships.

• The Academia Sinica Postdoctoral Scholar Program (support for 2 years; deadlines in September and March)

• JSPS Overseas Research Fellowships (海外特別研究員) (for Japanese citizens; support for 2 years; deadline in May)

• The Uehara Memorial Foundation Fellowships (上原生命科学財団 若手海外留学支援金) (for Japanese citizens; support for 1-2 years; deadline in September)

• EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowships (for those who are from EMBC member states; deadlines in January and July)

• HFSP Cross-Disciplinary Fellowships (for those who are from HFSPO member countries; support for 3 years; deadline in May)

In close collaboration with the Department of Physics at National Taiwan University (NTU) and the Department of Engineering and System Science at National Tsing Hua University (NTHU), we offer a structured PhD program. We encourage candidates to join our lab through the TIGP–Nano Science and Technology Program. Alternatively, we welcome co-advised PhD students from foreign universities through the TIGP–X Program. Please contact Ryota Sakamoto for more information about the application process.

• TIGP-Nano Science and Technology Program (deadline in February)

• TIGP-X Program (support for 3 months to 3 years, up to NT$600,000 per year for co-supervised PhD students. For comparison, this amount is comparable to or higher than JSPS DC1,2 fellowship)

We welcome visiting scholars who are interested in collaborating with us, and we are also happy to host students who are considering joining our group in the future as PhD students or postdoctoral researchers—much like a research-focused internship.

Several fellowships are available for visiting scholars, and we actively encourage and support fellowship applications.

• TIGP-X Program (support for 3 months to 3 years, up to NT$600,000 per year for co-supervised PhD students)

• Short-Term Visiting Program for Domestic Students (Visits last from two to six months. Academia Sinica may provide grants and subsidies for research materials and data collection costs)

• EMBO Scientific Exchange Grants (up to 90 days; support for travel costs and stipends)

• Royal Society International Exchanges Scheme (up to 3 months, 1 year, or 2 years; deadlines in March, June, and September)

We offer opportunities for individuals seeking scientific training to pursue careers in academia or industry. Research assistants will engage in developing technologies and projects, and will receive support for further scientific training, including presentations at conferences. Responsibilities also include administrative tasks to help maintain the lab. Please submit your application to Ryota Sakamoto.

• Research Assistant position in the Biomolecular Self-Organization & Engineering Life Lab (one position is available now)