The Experimental Quantum BioSensing (EQuBS) lab led by Assistant Professor Mouzhe Xie is continuously hiring!
Prof. Xie has a primary appointment at the School of Molecular Sciences (SMS) and a joint professorship at the Department of Physics as a thesis faculty.
Our overarching research calls for a multidisciplinary endeavor to investigate functionally important biological systems and processes at both ensemble and single-molecule levels. The technologies developed or employed in the EQuBS lab include novel quantum sensing techniques (especially using the nitrogen-vacancy defects in diamond crystal as a solid-state quantum sensor) as well as traditional microscopies and spectroscopies. Kindly note that the EQuBS is a new lab, which offers great opportunity to participate in every aspect of the setting-up, in addition to exciting research projects. In the next two years, we anticipate building 2 customized quantum sensing platforms, which involves design and instrumentation of optics, electronics, and robotics, as well as quantum metrological simulation for biosensing. Newly joined postdocs and students are particularly welcome to take the lead on one or multiple of these projects. We also welcome students to work on diamond quantum material engineering (in collaboration with Argonne National Laboratory Quantum Foundry, ASU Nano Science Lab, and ASU CXFEL etc.), as well as protein science, molecular biology, and diamond surface functionalization.
PhD and Master's students [1-2 openings]: Science and/or engineering background such as chemistry, physics, material, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. Previous experience working in a research lab/group is highly desirable. Work ethics, self-motivation, and problem-solving skill are important asset. They are typically reflected by demonstrating deep understanding of previous research projects and/or authoring scientific publications/manuscripts.
Postdoctoral researcher [1 opening]: Applicants with backgrounds in QISE (broadly defined), AMO/instrumentation, magnetic resonance, spintronics, optics and photonics, electronics, material engineering (specifically single-crystal diamond, ultrawide band-gap, and 2D), single-molecule techniques, or related topics, are welcome to apply. Please send cover letter (explaining motivation), CV (including a full publication list), summary of research, and contact information of three references to Prof. Xie (mouzhe.xie@asu.edu) for formal application. Informal inquiry is also welcome. Start date is flexible. Salary is negotiable.
Undergraduate and high school students: Specific research opportunities exist for individuals who have demonstrated skills in coding and programing (Python/MATLAB preferred), CAD, DIY / hands-on creation (e.g. Arduino circuit board, soldering, automation, or instrumentation), optics and electronics, protein expression / purification, nucleic acids, surface chemistry, and/or diamond material fabrication. Feel free to contact Prof. Xie if you have a strong motivation and commitment to conduct long-term research in the EQuBS lab.
For incoming / current ASU PhD students (SMS, Physics, or Engineering, etc.):
Please contact Prof. Xie (mouzhe.xie@asu.edu) if you are interested in doing a rotation in the EQuBS lab or simply want to ask some details. The rotation will be carried out with flexibility to accommodate student’s schedule, interest, and needs. Currently, we particularly welcome students who have extensive wet-lab experience on molecular biology (protein and/or nucleic acid) to join the team. Students with optical/electrical instrumentation background are also great match.
For prospective students who plan to apply / have applied to ASU Grad School:
If you have a strong motivation to join the EQuBS lab, please consider applying to the SMS PhD program (https://sms.asu.edu/graduate-study) or Physics PhD program (https://physics.asu.edu/admissions/phd-admissions). The admission decision is solely made by the corresponding committees based on the candidate's quality reflected in the application package. Prof. Xie cannot and does not assist in any form with the admission process, nor help evaluate the quality or success rate of your application. You are welcome to send your CV (and Personal Statement / Motivation Letter if applicable) to Prof. Xie to make inquiry about current research focus or discuss specific research ideas.