Research Scientist - Brain & Spinal Cord Drug Delivery

Research Scientist - Brain & Spinal Cord Drug Delivery Application Documents

Please submit:

• Cover letter (1 page)
• CV with publications
• Research statement (1–2 pages)
• Two representative publications
• Contact information for 3 references

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist 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.

Master’s degree in a field directly related to research, plus two (2) years of experience or expertise performing research in the specified field – or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience totaling at least eight years.

• 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.

• Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a 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).

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.

Physical Activities

Working Conditions

A remote work schedule is not available for this position.

UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer with an employee-friendly and supportive work environment. The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment.

The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.

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