Johns Hopkins University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join Dr. Michael J. Betenbaugh’s laboratory in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. The position focuses on developing filamentous fungi as efficient platforms for producing valuable biomolecules through fungal cultivation, strain engineering, molecular biology, bioprocess development, and advanced analytical techniques. The role offers opportunities for interdisciplinary research, industrial collaboration, mentoring, and professional development in biotechnology and biomanufacturing.
Summary Table
| Position | Postdoctoral Researcher |
|---|---|
| Principal Investigator | Dr. Michael J. Betenbaugh |
| Institution | Johns Hopkins University |
| School | Whiting School of Engineering |
| Department | Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering |
| Research Focus | Filamentous fungal biotechnology and biomanufacturing |
| Location | Baltimore, Maryland, USA |
| Salary | $60,000–$70,000 per year |
| Initial Appointment | 1 year, with expectation of 2+ years total |
| Open Date | September 21, 2026 |
| Application Platform | Interfolio |
| References Required | 3 |
Designation
Postdoctoral Researcher
Research Area
- Filamentous fungal biotechnology
- Biomanufacturing
- Fungal cultivation and strain engineering
- Molecular biology and genetic engineering
- Fermentation and bioprocess development
- Biomolecule and protein production
- Analytical biotechnology
- Experimental design and data analysis
- Advanced microscopy, mathematical modeling, and machine learning
Location
Baltimore, Maryland, 21211, USA
The position is based at Johns Hopkins University’s Whiting School of Engineering. The Betenbaugh Laboratory also provides opportunities for collaboration with industrial partners in the biopharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors and participation in the AMBIC biomanufacturing center.
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants should have:
- A Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Biological Sciences, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Microbiology, or a related field.
- Research experience relevant to molecular biology, fungal biology, biotechnology, bioprocessing, or related areas.
- Background in molecular biology, virology, and protein expression is helpful.
- Experience or interest in fungal strain engineering, fermentation, and biomanufacturing is desirable.
- Experience with baculovirus and rAAV manipulation would be advantageous.
- Familiarity with advanced microscopy, mathematical modeling, or machine learning is beneficial.
- Proficiency in data analysis, statistical modeling, and experimental design.
- Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary and collaborative research environment.
Job Description
The successful candidate will lead an experimental research project aimed at improving filamentous fungi as platforms for the production of valuable biomolecules.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conduct literature reviews on filamentous fungal biology, strain engineering, fermentation, and biomanufacturing.
- Design and conduct experiments to improve fungal growth, productivity, product quality, and process robustness.
- Culture filamentous fungi using shake flasks and bioreactors.
- Investigate the effects of media composition and process conditions on fungal production.
- Apply molecular biology and genetic engineering approaches to modify and characterize fungal production strains.
- Use analytical techniques to measure growth, substrate consumption, metabolite production, product yield, and product quality.
- Analyze experimental data to identify biological and process bottlenecks.
- Develop subsequent experiments based on research findings.
- Prepare manuscripts, conference presentations, and internal research reports.
- Maintain detailed records of experimental procedures, results, and methodologies.
- Communicate research progress with academic and industrial collaborators.
- Assist in mentoring graduate students and junior researchers.
The laboratory provides a supportive mentoring environment with regular one-to-one meetings with Dr. Betenbaugh. Researchers will also have opportunities to collaborate with biotechnology and biopharmaceutical companies and participate in AMBIC conferences, workshops, and seminars.
How to Apply
Applicants should submit their application through Interfolio and provide:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter describing research experience and interests
- Contact information for three references
- A statement explaining why the Betenbaugh Laboratory is a good fit for the applicant’s career trajectory
The position offers standard Johns Hopkins employee benefits and opportunities for professional development and collaboration with academic and industrial partners.
Last Date for Apply
Until position filled applicants are encouraged to apply while the position remains available.
