Postdoctoral Research Associate

Texas A&M University System • College Station, TX

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct independent cell biology research on the impacts of nanoplastics while providing technical support to the Image Analysis Laboratory. Under general supervision and guidance, the role uses high-resolution microscopy techniques, with a focus on sample preparation and imaging by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Work includes tissue processing, resin embedding, ultramicrotomy, and heavy metal staining to produce ultrathin sections and high-resolution transmission electron micrographs. The position also organizes and catalogs specimens and data and assists with the daily operation and maintenance of the ultramicrotome and TEM.

The role analyzes research data, summarizes results, publishes findings, and writes grant proposals. It also supports TEM services, maintains sample tracking and project documentation, prepares research presentations, and participates in technical progress reports for sponsors. The associate may mentor or supervise student and graduate researchers. The position is onsite in College Station, Texas, on a full-time Monday–Friday schedule. It is grant- and/or contract-funded and contingent on continued funding and satisfactory performance. Travel and work beyond normal office hours, including weekends, may be required.

Requirements

• Appropriate terminal degree (PhD, DVM, MD, DDS, etc.) in a related field.
• Ability to perform delicate, repetitive tasks with high precision.
• Ability to apply logic to troubleshoot problems.
• Knowledge of image analysis software such as ImageJ (Fiji), Adobe Photoshop, or proprietary microscopy acquisition software.
• Ability to maintain rigorous labeling and cataloging standards.
• Knowledge of basic laboratory safety and protocols for handling hazardous reagents.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work within a collaborative team environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in cell biology, histology, biochemistry, physiology, anatomy, and/or other related fields.
• Demonstrated ability to complete cutting-edge research projects through a record of publications.
• Previous experience working in a research or core laboratory environment.
• Experience involving microscopy, including TEM, SEM, or optical microscopy.
• Experience with basic tissue processing, embedding, or microtomy.
• Experience using spreadsheets or databases.

Responsibilities

• Conduct cell biology research on the impacts of nanoplastics.
• Complete research projects in the associate’s field of expertise.
• Assist with preparation and maintenance of the worksite.
• Analyze research data and summarize results.
• Publish research findings and write grant proposals.
• Assist with tissue processing for TEM.
• Develop proficiency with the ultramicrotome and cut ultrathin tissue sections.
• Develop proficiency with the transmission electron microscope.
• Perform TEM imaging and data acquisition.
• Maintain sample tracking systems and organize and archive project documentation.
• May assist, mentor, and/or supervise student and graduate researchers working on related research.
• Prepare presentation materials that may be presented to small or large groups.
• Participate in preparing required technical progress reports for research sponsors.
• Assist with daily operation and maintenance of the ultramicrotome and TEM.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long-term disability insurance; Texas A&M contributes to employee health and basic life premiums.
• 12–15 days of annual paid holidays.
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month.
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
• Free exercise programs and release time.
• Free LinkedIn Learning training, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more.
• Educational release time and tuition assistance for completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee.
• Living Well employee program.

What This Job Offers

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