Postdoctoral Research Associate

Postdoctoral Research Associate

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct independent and collaborative research focused on elucidating the molecular mechanisms that regulate chromatin remodeling, transcriptional activation, and gene expression. Using a combination of genetic, biochemical, cell biological, and genomic approaches, the researcher will investigate how chromatin-associated factors coordinate the dynamic regulation of transcription in eukaryotic systems. Research activities will utilize model organisms, including Drosophila melanogaster and/or mouse models, as well as complementary in vitro biochemical and molecular assays.

The position requires the design, execution, and interpretation of complex experiments involving molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microscopy, and functional genomics techniques. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will analyze and present findings, contribute to manuscript and grant preparation, maintain accurate research records, and collaborate with faculty, staff, and trainees within the laboratory and broader research community. The position is not considered essential staff.

Experimental Design and Research Execution (60%)

• Design, perform, and optimize experiments investigating chromatin remodeling, transcriptional regulation, and gene expression.
• Utilize model organisms, including Drosophila melanogaster and/or mouse systems, to address fundamental questions in gene regulation.
• Conduct molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, and in vitro assays.
• Analyze experimental results and troubleshoot technical challenges to advance research objectives.

Data Analysis, Interpretation, and Dissemination (20%)

• Analyze and interpret experimental data using appropriate computational and statistical methods.
• Prepare figures, reports, manuscripts, presentations, and other scholarly products.
• Present research findings at laboratory meetings, departmental seminars, and scientific conferences.
• Contribute to the preparation of grant applications and progress reports.

Laboratory Operations and Collaboration (10%)

• Maintain accurate and detailed research records.
• Assist with management of laboratory resources, equipment, and research materials.
• Ensure compliance with institutional, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate effectively with faculty, staff, students, and external research partners.

Training and Mentorship (10%)

• Provide guidance and technical training to graduate students, undergraduate researchers, and other laboratory personnel as appropriate.
• Contribute to a collaborative and inclusive research environment.
• Participate in professional development activities and scientific training opportunities.

Minimum Acceptable Education & Experience

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or a closely related field by the start date of employment.
• Demonstrated research experience in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience conducting independent laboratory research and analyzing experimental data.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and gene regulation.
• Ability to design, conduct, and interpret complex biological experiments.
• Experience with standard molecular and cellular biology techniques.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain detailed and accurate scientific records.
• Ability to communicate scientific findings effectively through written publications and oral presentations.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to collaborative research teams.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet research deadlines.

Other Requirements

• Ability to work in a laboratory environment and safely handle biological materials and laboratory reagents.
• Willingness to comply with all institutional research compliance, laboratory safety, and animal care regulations, as applicable.

• Experience in chromatin remodeling, epigenetics, transcriptional regulation, or related areas of gene regulation research.
• Experience working with Drosophila melanogaster and/or mouse model systems.
• Experience with confocal microscopy and live-cell imaging techniques, including FRAP and FRET.
• Experience with genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, or other high-throughput approaches.
• Experience with bioinformatics or computational analysis of genomic datasets.
• Record of peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations.
• Experience mentoring students or junior researchers.