About this role
TTU Post Doctoral Research Associate
Position Description: Performs specialized Post Doctoral work in the planning, conducting and/or supervision of original research. Responsible for participating in a research project associated with PhD studies and the interpretation of the results of publication. Work is performed under supervision of graduate faculty members with evaluation based on accomplishment of assigned objectives and overall effectiveness of project. May supervise research and student assistants.
About the University: Founded in 1923, Texas Tech University began with a mission to serve the needs of West Texas, but its impact has always reached far beyond. Today, Texas Tech, located in Lubbock (pop. 300,000+), is home to a vibrant community of more than 42,000 students.Texas Tech's 1,800-acre campus showcases Spanish Renaissance architecture and is home to one of the country's largest public art collections. Its 13 colleges include a prestigious School of Law and a distinguished School of Veterinary Medicine. These programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their respective fields. Built on the values of West Texas — hard work, grit and authenticity — the university graduates students who are deeply engaged in service to their communities and well-positioned to succeed in the world. Texas Tech is committed to achieving research and scholarly accomplishments that compare favorably to the member institutions of the Association of American Universities (AAU). For more than 100 years, Texas Tech has been a premier destination for those seeking a world-class education and a unique, personalized experience as a member of the Red Raider family.
Major/Essential Functions: Lead development of polymeric and nanoparticle systems for biomedical imaging, including polymer synthesis and functionalization, nanoparticle synthesis and nanoformulation, nanoprecipitation, self-assembly, and physiochemical, optical characterization.
Design and execute biological evaluation across 2D/3D in vitro models and in vivo mouse studies, including toxicity, cellular uptake, confocal imaging, tumor implantation/injections, fluorescence/NIR/NIR-II imaging, pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and tissue-level analysis.
Independently plan experiments, troubleshoot technically demanding workflows, analyze quantitative data, and move projects from concept through publication.
Lead manuscripts and presentations, mentor junior researchers, contribute intellectually to collaborative projects, and help establish new experimental capabilities.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Ph.D. completed (or expected before the start date) in Bioengineering/Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.
Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed research productivity, including first-author/co-first-author or equivalent lead-author publications; accepted or in-press manuscripts may be considered.
Demonstrated experimental independence: ability to design studies, execute technically demanding research, troubleshoot failures, interpret data, and communicate results in manuscripts and presentations.
Applicants should demonstrate substantial hands-on expertise in at least TWO of the following FOUR core technical areas: Polymer and surfactant synthesis: synthesis, characterization of polymers, amphiphiles, and surfactants, including PEGylated lipids and polymer-brush
Required Qualifications: PhD in area of project specialization. Knowledge of modern research practices, the methods, resources, and standards thereof. Ability to organize work effectively, conceptualize and prioritize objectives and exercise independent judgment based on an understanding of organizational policies and activities. Ability to integrate resources, policies, and information for the determination of procedures, solutions and other outcomes. Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with other employees and the public. Ability to plan and allocate the workload of employees, providing direct training and supervision as needed.
This position is designated as involving access to critical infrastructure systems and/or research, as defined by Texas Executive Order GA-48. As such, candidates must successfully complete a comprehensive background check prior to employment. Employees are required to comply with all applicable state and federal regulations related to the protection of critical infrastructure. Ongoing employment is dependent upon maintaining eligibility for access and successfully passing periodic security and compliance reviews.
Preferred Qualifications: Candidates with complementary expertise that bridges materials development (polymer, surfactant and/or nanoparticle synthesis) with biological evaluation (in vitro and/or in vivo studies) will be especially competitive. Experience independently moving a platform from formulation through biological validation is highly desirable.
Evidence of research leadership, including mentoring junior researchers, developing new methods, leading collaborations, or substantive participation in grant-driven projects.
Safety Information: Adherence to robust safety practices and compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations are responsibilities of all TTU employees.
Pay Statement: Compensation is commensurate upon the qualifications of the individual selected and budgetary guidelines of the hiring department, as well as the institutional pay plan.
EEO Statement: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or status as a protected veteran.