Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral Associate

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.

Core Job Functions

1. Conducts research on specific areas of study as assigned.
2. Prepares research reports and technical papers for publication.
3. Investigaes the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and theories.
4. Maintains substantial knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories.
5. Develops advanced analytical models and systems and provides solutions and analyses to support strategic and tactical decisions.
6. Adheres to University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguards University assets.

Core Qualifications

• 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.

Department Specific Functions

• 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.

Department Specific Qualifications

• Education: PhD or MD degree
• PhD in chemistry, materials science Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Experience: No prior experience
• Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes:
• 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

This is a core job profile description and is not reflective of all duties that may be assigned to a specific position in each individual department. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and primary responsibilities of this core job profile. Specific duties and tasks may vary based upon departmental needs. Other duties may be assigned to the above consistent with the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the job.

The University of Miami offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, tuition remission and more.