Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Medical Sciences; College of Medicine - Phoenix

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Basic Medical Sciences (College of Medicine – Phoenix)

Dr. Xia Xiao’s laboratory in the Department of Basic Medical Sciences is seeking highly motivated candidates for a postdoctoral research position. Our research focuses on uncovering the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying liver fibrosis, with particular emphasis on BMP‑SMAD signaling and iron dysregulation. The long‑term goal of our work is to identify novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of chronic liver diseases.

Position Highlights: Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in cellular and molecular biology, immunology, physiology, nutritional sciences, or a related field. Candidates with a strong interest in liver disease, iron metabolism, and fibrosis are especially encouraged to apply. Extensive experience with animal models is required. Experience with iPSC‑derived organoids, flow cytometry (FACS), and primary liver cell isolation is desirable but not required.

Research Opportunities: This position is part of a well‑funded research program and offers excellent opportunities to contribute to high‑impact publications and to develop an independent research trajectory, including preparation for future grant funding. The successful candidate will receive strong mentorship in both scientific development and career advancement.

Visa Sponsorship: This position is eligible for visa sponsorship.

Benefits: Health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to recreation and cultural activities.

• Conduct advanced, multi‑disciplinary research in iron metabolism and liver diseases under the direction of the principal investigator, Dr. Xia Xiao.
• Develop, design, and conduct complex research projects.
• Formulate research methods, develop criteria, and perform scientific data collection and analysis using independent judgment.
• Foster collaborations within the Department and with other units across the University.
• Perform delicate animal studies and imaging.
• Develop and maintain detailed records of experiments, analyzing and recording findings.
• Present results at laboratory meetings and conferences.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Participate in grant writing, including generating preliminary data, submitting grant applications, and preparing progress reports.
• Develop and implement protocols as dictated by experimental results.
• Assist with supervision of laboratory staff.
• Contribute to daily lab operations.

• Excellent laboratory and analytical skills and commitment to scientific excellence and innovation.
• Knowledge of statistics and data analysis and interpretation.
• Ability to conduct research independently and within a team.
• Ability to communicate professionally in a clear, concise manner orally and in writing.
• Knowledge of grant writing and manuscript preparation.
• Ability to participate at scientific conferences and present findings.

• Ph.D. in Metabolism, Physiology, and Biochemistry.

• Track record of publications in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Interest in signaling transduction.
• Experience in iron metabolism and liver pathophysiology.

• Office of Talent Acquisition
• Email: talent