Research Associate, Research Scientist

Please see Special Instructions for more details.

Application Materials:

• CV with publications
• Two representative publications
• Contact information for 2–3 references

Posting Number

S06746P

Position Title

Research Associate

Functional Title

Department

Mechanical Engineering

Salary Range

$65,000 DOQ

Pay Basis

Monthly

Position Status

Regular full-time

Location

Position End Date (if temporary)

Posting Open Date

11/21/2025

Posting Close Date

12/01/2025

Open Until Filled

No

Desired Start Date

01/01/2026

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to advance local drug delivery strategies and high-throughput nanoparticle screening for therapeutic applications in the brain and spinal cord. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of nanomedicine and translational neuroscience, with projects aimed at improving targeted delivery across CNS barriers and optimizing nanoparticle formulations for neurological disorders.

Ph.D in a related field.

Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.

• Hands‑on experience in drug delivery systems, nanoparticle formulation, or neurotherapeutics.
• Strong publication record and proficiency in data analysis tools (Python, R, MATLAB).

• Expertise in CNS‑targeted delivery, BBB transport, or neurodegenerative disease models.
• Experience with high-throughput screening platforms, or combinatorial nanoparticle libraries.
• Familiarity with advanced imaging and nanoparticle biodistribution.
• Prior involvement in grant writing, IP, or translational research collaborations.

To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position.

• Local Drug Delivery:
  Design and evaluate delivery systems for localized administration to brain and spinal cord tissues (e.g., intrathecal, intracerebral, epidural approaches).
• Nanoparticle Screening:
  Develop and implement high-throughput platforms for screening nanoparticle libraries for CNS penetration, biodistribution, and therapeutic efficacy.
• In Vitro & In Vivo Models:
  Utilize advanced models (BBB models, rodent CNS injury/disease models) to assess delivery performance and safety.
• Analytical & Imaging Techniques:
  Apply quantitative imaging (confocal, MRI, fluorescence), pharmacokinetics, and biodistribution analysis.
• Data Analysis:
  Perform statistical analysis for nanoparticle behavior and optimize formulations.
• Collaboration & Dissemination:
  Work closely with multidisciplinary teams (neuroscience, pharmacology, materials science); publish findings in high-impact journals and present at conferences.

A remote work schedule is not available for this position.

What We Can Offer

• Internal Training
• BCBS PPO Medical insurance – 100% paid for full-time employees
• PPO and DHMO Dental Insurance Plan – PPO plans include ortho benefits
• Vision Insurance
• Long and short-term disability
• TRS Retirement Plan – defined benefit plan offering lifetime annuity upon retirement
• Voluntary Retirement Plan Options – additional savings opportunities with Tax‑Sheltered Annuity Plans and Deferred Compensation Plans
• Paid time off
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Winter Break
• Fertility Benefits

All UT Dallas employees have access to various professional development opportunities, including a membership to Academic Impressions, Linked In Learning, and UT Dallas Bright Leaders Program.

Special Instructions Summary

Application Materials:

• CV with publications
• Two representative publications
• Contact information for 2–3 references

1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT…