The Bio-AFM Frontier Research Center was founded October 1, 2010, at College of Science & Engineering of Kanazawa University to promote biological research by the use of Kanazawa University-born revolutionary new atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques and technological development of the next-generation of bio-AFM. This foundation is one of the main strategies that Kanazawa University has mapped out to further strengthen the research activity in the University.

The Center is seeking to hire a full-time tenure-track assistant professor to conduct research in the High-speed AFM R&D Division. The Division focuses on the development of high-speed scanning probe microscopy (high-speed SPM) and related techniques that can contribute to the elucidation of dynamics occurring with biological molecules, intracellular organelles, and cells. The Division is also involved in imaging studies by technically assisting the other Divisions in conducting imaging studies. The members in the Division are encouraged to conduct bio-imaging studies by themselves using developed instruments and techniques. The information of our previous and ongoing studies on instrumentation and bio-AFM imaging can be found at this Center's web site and at the lab websites of the Division Heads (Ando and Fukuma) (News & Link).

Candidates should have an earned doctorate or should be expected to earn a doctorate before arriving to take up the position, and should have a research experience in one of the following areas; Experimental Physics, Applied Physics, Nano-Physics (or Nano-engineering), and Biophysics. Although no experience of SPM studies is required, candidates should have an experience of either software programming, desig of electronic circuits, or design of machines.

The High-speed AFM R&D Division comprises three researchers; Prof. Toshio Ando (Director of the Center and Head of this Division), an associate professors (Dr. Takayuki Uchihashi), and a tenure-track assistant professor to be recruited by the present open recruitment.

Through reviewing (see subjects and methods of reviewing), a tenure-track assistant professor to be hired in the present open recruitment can be promoted to a tenure associate professor position or employed as a tenure assistant professor after conducting 5-year research.

Teaching: There is no duty but instructing 1-2 students in their research is encouraged.

Research Budget: Although not yet 100% certain, Kanazawa University will provide a tenure-tack assistant professor to be recruited in the present recruitment with 10 million Yen (first year) and 5 million Yen (second year) for the start up of research. The Center will also manage to provide funds for the start up. A full set of high-speed AFM apparatus and other facilities will be provided. However, acquiring funds for his/her research from external organizations is encouraged.

Applications (in free format) including

1) curriculum vitae,

2) list of publications,

3) electronic copies of important publications,

4) list of research grants acquired,

5) research experience and strong skills (2 page, A4 size),

6) statement on research interests (1 page, A4 size),

7) list of two references

should be sent to the following e-mail address;

Prof. Toshio Ando, Director of the Bio-AFM Frontier Research Center

E-mail: tando@staff.kanazawa-u.ac.jp

Deadline for application is February 29, 2012. An appointee is expected on duty on June 1, 2012.