Postdoctoral Research Associate

Washington State University • Pullman, WA

1d • $55,000 - $60,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Sharma Lab ( Translational Nanomedicines Research Laboratory webpage ) in Department of Chemistry at Washington State University (WSU) invites applications for a full-time, twelve-month, fixed-term postdoctoral research associate appointment in Pullman, WA, with a specialty in the in the areas of nanomedicine, targeted drug delivery, and polymer/dendrimer chemistry. The Sharma lab is developing rationally designed, smart, clinically translatable novel cell-targeted nanotechnologies for target-specific drug/gene delivery and imaging applications to help diagnose and treat unmet medical problems in the areas of brain and eye diseases, and cancer. We are seeking a highly motivated scientist to join our dynamic, multidisciplinary research team. The ideal candidate will bring strong expertise in in vivo animal models, confocal microscopy, IVIS imaging, cell culture systems, organoids, tissue slice preparations, and cutting-edge biochemical and molecular techniques. Key responsibilities include animal handling, surgical procedures, and disease modeling, as well as designing and executing experiments that integrate advanced imaging and molecular approaches. The successful candidate will conduct independent research while thriving in a collaborative environment, contribute to manuscript preparation, and support grant writing. This position offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of transnational science and innovation, tackling impactful biomedical challenges with access to state-of-the-art facilities This 12-month position is renewable on yearly basis for up to an additional 2 years. It is anticipated that the successful candidate will begin the appointment on November 1, 2025 . Renewal depends on satisfactory performance, the continued need for the position, and funding continuation.

Requirements

• Successful candidates must possess a PhD or equivalent degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, neuroscience, or a related field and be able to work independently with high self-motivation.
• Experience in imaging and working with mouse models is highly desired.

Nice To Haves

• Prior research experience in fundamental cell culture, molecular biology, and biochemistry techniques, animal disease models and animal handling is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and troubleshoot in vivo experiments using relevant animal models for cancer, neurological disorders, and other disease areas.
• Perform animal handling, surgical procedures, dosing, and monitoring in compliance with IACUC protocols.
• Integrate confocal microscopy, IVIS imaging, and histological analysis to evaluate therapeutic efficacy and disease progression.
• Conduct ex vivo and in vitro studies using primary cells, organoids, and tissue slices.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical and computational methods.
• Maintain meticulous electronic laboratory notebooks, detailed experimental records, and inventory of reagents and equipment.
• Collaborate closely with team members across chemistry, biology, and translational research disciplines to advance project milestones.
• Prepare and contribute to manuscripts, conference presentations, and grant applications.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate trainees in in vivo techniques, data analysis, and experimental design.
• Stay current with emerging biomedical research methods and technologies relevant to the lab’s focus areas.
• Ensure strict adherence to biosafety, animal welfare, and ethical research standards.

Benefits

• WSU offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes paid sick and vacation leave; paid holidays; medical, dental, life and disability insurance package for employees and dependents; retirement; deferred compensation and optional supplemental retirement accounts.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees