Postdoctoral Research Associate

Position Highlights

The Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, is seeking a qualified applicant for the position of Postdoctoral Research Associate. Improving the healing of skin wounds is a significant and complex medical issue, whether these wounds are isolated lesions or part of larger traumatic injuries. The laboratory currently focuses on understanding the complex cellular and pathophysiological mechanisms of the skin and its associated peripheral nerve action following trauma using both animal and cell culture models.

We are looking for a candidate who can devote time to support our ongoing projects.

Visa Sponsorship
:
This position is eligible for visa sponsorship.

• Perform handling of mice and rats for research activities, including dosing, blood collection, tissue harvesting, and sample processing.
• Conduct histomorphometric analyses using microtome and cryotome sectioning, immunofluorescence, and histological staining techniques. Support molecular analyses such as qPCR, RT-PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and related laboratory assays.
• Conduct in vitro and ex vivo cell culture experiments, including cell isolation, culturing, and characterization. Perform scratch assays, cell proliferation, migration, and co-culture experiments.
• Carry out quantitative analysis of gene and protein targets using techniques such as immunofluorescence, microscopy, flow cytometry, RT-PCR, and Western blotting.
• Apply knowledge and interest in investigating the therapeutic effects of FDA-approved compounds for skin wound healing and tissue regeneration.
• Perform and support surgical procedures related to full‑thickness excision wounds, burns, scald injuries, and other trauma‑based injury models in a research setting.
• Perform animal genotyping and breeding to support in vivo and in vitro knockout strategies.
• Conduct wound healing studies, tissue‑based gene and protein analyses, and in vitro cell culture using isolated cells derived from targeted organs or tissues.
• Demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills to present research findings at conferences, support grant applications, and contribute to publications in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Effectively manage multiple priorities, demonstrate strong time‑management skills, and interact professionally and collaboratively with staff at all levels in a diverse, multicultural work environment.

• Demonstrated knowledge of applied pharmacology, physiology, biochemistry, translational science, or closely related biomedical disciplines.
• Ability to independently develop research hypotheses and design creative, methodologically sound experimental plans.
• Demonstrated commitment to learning and implementing new laboratory techniques and research methodologies.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to clearly present scientific data and findings.
• Proficiency in the handling, dosing, and tissue processing of murine models (mice and rats).
• Experience with in vitro and/or ex vivo cell culture techniques.
• Knowledge and experience in animal genotyping and breeding protocols.

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. or MD) in applied pharmacology, physiology, biochemistry, translational science, or related fields.

• FLSA:
  Exempt
• Full Time/Part Time:
  Full Time
• Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40
• Job FTE: 1.0
• Work Calendar:
  Fiscal
• Job Category:
  Research
• Benefits Eligible:
  Yes - Full Benefits
• Rate of Pay: NIH salary guidelines, Depends on Experience
• Compensation Type: salary at 1.0 full‑time equivalency (FTE)
• Type of criminal background check required:
  Name‑based criminal background check (non‑security sensitive)
• Number of Vacancies: 1

• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for employee and qualified family members
• Access to UA recreation and cultural activities
• And more!

Carly Deal
carlyjdeal

• Open Date: 2/12/2026
• Open Until Filled:
  Yes
• Documents Needed to Apply:
  Curriculum Vitae (CV), Cover Letter, and One Additional Document
• The online application should be completed in its entirety. Blank or missed information may be considered an incomplete submission.
• Interested candidates should submit the following materials: a cover letter that includes the names and contact information of two professional references, a research proposal relevant to our projects, and a current curriculum vitae.