Research Associate, Research Scientist

Biomedical Micro Devices and Nanotechnology Lab seeks to hire a Postdoctoral Researcher to spearhead the development of innovative diagnostic biosensors. The successful candidate will focus on the end‑to‑end pipeline of biomarker discovery and sensor engineering, from molecular selection to high‑fidelity analytical validation.

• Aptamer Discovery & SELEX:
  Mastery of SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment) methodologies to identify, select, and optimize high‑affinity DNA / RNA aptamers for novel biomarker targets. Experience in post‑SELEX characterization such as determining Kd values is essential.
• Biomarker Analysis (LC/MS):
  Proficiency in using LC/MS (Liquid Chromatography‑Mass Spectrometry) to characterize and quantify biomarkers within complex biological matrices such as sweat, saliva, or blood, facilitating the transition from discovery to detection.
• Sensor Design & Engineering:
  Strong understanding of biochemistry and materials chemistry to integrate custom‑developed aptamers into functional biosensor platforms (e.g., electrochemical).
• Assay Development:
  Ability to independently design and execute complex, novel assay protocols for multiple biomarkers, ensuring robustness and sensitivity in real‑world samples.

Ph.D in a related field. Candidates who have successfully completed all requirements for the Ph.D. but whose degree has not yet been formally conferred may be eligible to begin employment provided they submit an official letter from the Registrar or Graduate School certifying that all doctoral requirements have been satisfied and specifying the expected date of conferral. Appointment and continued employment are contingent upon formal conferral of the Ph.D.

Preferred:
PhD in engineering or related fields.

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.

UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer with an employee‑friendly and supportive work environment. Our comprehensive compensation and benefits package that is effective as of your hire date includes:

• 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

This is a temporary 1-year position, renewable up to 2 years, pending funding availability and satisfactory performance. A remote work schedule is not available for this position.

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, employment, and education. 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.