Postdoctoral Associate

University of Miami • Miami, FL

10d • Onsite

About The Position

The Postdoctoral Associate performs scientific research and studies under the supervision of managing staff. Moreover, the Postdoctoral Associate promotes institutional recognition through literal contributions to the scientific community. This role involves designing, synthesizing, and characterizing metal-chelating nanoparticles, integrating them into nano wipe substrates, and conducting experimental studies to evaluate their efficacy in removing heavy metals. The position also requires performing advanced analytical techniques, cell culture-based studies, data analysis, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team. The Postdoctoral Associate will also be responsible for preparing manuscripts for publication, presenting findings, contributing to grant development, and maintaining a safe laboratory environment.

Requirements

• Doctorate degree in a relevant field required.
• No previous experience required.
• Learning Agility: Ability to learn new procedures, technologies, and protocols, and adapt to changing priorities and work demands.
• Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with others and contribute to a team environment.
• Technical Proficiency: Skilled in using office software, technology, and relevant computer applications.
• Communication: Strong and clear written and verbal communication skills for interacting with colleagues and stakeholders.
• PhD or MD degree.
• PhD in chemistry, materials science Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• No prior experience.
• Strong experimental skills with hands-on experience in nanoparticle synthesis, surface functionalization, and chelation chemistry.
• Proven analytical abilities, including proficiency in data analysis software and statistical methods.
• Excellent comprehension and problem-solving skills, with the ability to critically evaluate scientific literature and adapt methodologies to project needs.
• High level of motivation, independence, and initiative, with a track record of driving projects forward in a fast-paced research setting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for disseminating research findings.

Responsibilities

• Conducts research on specific areas of study as assigned.
• Prepares research reports and technical papers for publication.
• Investigates the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and theories.
• Maintains substantial knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories.
• Develops advanced analytical models and systems and provides solutions and analyses to support strategic and tactical decisions.
• Adheres to University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguards University assets.
• Design, synthesize, and characterize metal-chelating nanoparticles and integrate them into nano wipe substrates.
• Conduct experimental studies to evaluate the efficacy of nano wipes in binding and removing heavy metals (e.g., lead, cadmium, chromium) from simulated and real-world exposure scenarios.
• Perform advanced analytical techniques, including ICP-MS, LC-MS, NMR, microscopy, electrochemistry, and other tools for nanoparticle surface characterization to assess nanoparticle stability, chelation efficiency, and detoxification performance.
• Perform cell culture-based studies and other complementary techniques such as animal handling.
• Analyze data, interpret results, and develop models to optimize nano wipe formulations for enhanced selectivity and biocompatibility.
• Collaborate with team members, including chemists, materials scientists, and toxicologists.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact journals, present findings at conferences, and contribute to grant reporting and future proposal development.
• Maintain a safe and organized laboratory environment, adhering to all relevant protocols and ethical standards.

Benefits

• medical
• dental
• tuition remission

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree