Postdoctoral Scholar in Applied Physics

The Protocol Labs Network is an ecosystem of teams pushing the boundaries of decentralized technologies, research, and open‑source innovation. Explore opportunities across the network and join the mission. A postdoctoral scholar is sought to study and understand the physical principles underlying how natural dyes and pigments affect the color of foods. Natural dyes and pigments are difficult to incorporate in food formulations because they are generally not as photostable as synthetic dyes, and they are not as easy to disperse or dissolve. The candidate will join the group of Prof. Vinothan N. Manoharan at Harvard SEAS to develop an understanding of how the physical states of the dye and other components in the food formulation determine the color. The project combines experimental characterization (spectroscopy, microscopy, and light scattering) with modeling of light transport. The postdoc will primarily work on the experimental studies but will also have the opportunity to participate in computational and analytical modeling. This postdoc will also be responsible for reporting results to the industrial sponsor of the project. Funding for this project runs until April 30 2027, and therefore preference will be given to candidates who can start in January 2026, but applications from candidates with a later start date will also be considered. Basic Qualifications Ph.D. in physics, applied physics, chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related discipline. Additional Qualifications Proficiency in experimental measurements of optical properties of materials, including spectroscopy, light scattering, and/or microscopy. Background in soft materials, complex fluids, or colloidal science is desirable but not strictly required. Special Instructions Please submit a current CV with publications listed and a detailed description of research experience, as well as a minimum of two reference letters. Contact Information Email: View email address on click.appcast.io Salary Range $67,600 – $91,826 Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as rank, years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field. Minimum Number of References Required 2 Maximum Number of References Allowed 3 EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non-discrimination policy. Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination. Supplemental Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*). #J-18808-Ljbffr