Postdoctoral Research Associate - Clemons Lab

University of Southern Mississippi, United States

Updated: 2 days ago
Location: Hattiesburg, MISSISSIPPI
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: The position may have been removed or expired!

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Clemons Lab

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Postdoctoral Research Associate - Clemons Lab.


Position Details
Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States
Division Polymer Science and Engineering
Position Type Staff
Employment Status Full Time
Grant Funded No
Posting Close Date open until filled

Special Instructions to Applicants
Applications must be submitted online at https://jobs.usm.edu. Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for at least three references. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. For inquiries about the position, contact Dr. Tristan Clemons ([email protected]).
Job Summary 
The Clemons Lab within the School of Polymer Science and Engineering at the University of Southern Mississippi invites applications for a postdoctoral research position focused in the area of multifunctional polymeric materials for applied tissue regeneration applications. The ideal candidate would have a background in polymer synthesis, polymer characterization (NMR, GPC, UV-Vis, FTIR) and the testing of these materials in a biological setting (in vitro assays, ELISA, western blot analysis). The initial appointment is for one year, with the potential for continuation based on the progression of the project and availability of funding.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities  

  • Conduct research related to the synthesis, and characterization of multifunctional polymer and peptide-based materials.
  • Conduct in vitro biological assays including cell culture (viability, proliferation, immunohistochemistry), protein analysis (SDS-PAGE, Western Blot and ELISA) and DNA/RNA protocols (DNA gels, qPCR etc).
  • Engage in mentorship and supervision of graduate and undergraduate student research.
  • Communicate the results of research to a spectrum of stakeholders via preparation of high-quality technical reports, peer reviewed journal articles, and formal and informal presentations.
  • Participate in writing grant proposals
  • Perform other duties as assigned

    • Minimum Qualifications 
    Earned Ph.D. from an accredited college or university in polymer science and engineering, chemistry, biomedical engineering, biochemistry or a closely related discipline. Demonstrated record of intellectual and academic accomplishments evidenced by peer-reviewed publications and professional presentations.

    Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

    • Ability to be self-motivated and to work effectively, collaboratively, and collegially in a team environment with scientists and engineers representing diverse backgrounds, skills, and experience levels.
    • Excellent written and oral communication skills
    • Ability to conduct lab management with regards to safety, general instrument maintenance, and operation
    • Be a positive and enthusiastic member of the lab.
    • Competent & skilled in controlled radical polymerization methods (RAFT/ATRP preferred or others)
    • Skilled in polymer characterization techniques (NMR, GPC, CD, UV-Vis, and FTIR)
    • Skilled in cell culture techniques, design of cell-based experiments, and basic plate based assays (cytotoxicity, ELISA, western blot, immunohistochemistry etc.)

    Preferred Qualifications  
    Candidates should have strong experimental experience and a track record of successful research demonstrated through presentations and peer reviewed publications.  Research at the interface of polymer chemistry and biology is highly desired. Previous post-doctoral experience (2+ years) preferred.


    About The University of Southern Mississippi
    The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is a comprehensive public research institution delivering transformative programs on campuses in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. Founded in 1910, USM is one of only 131 universities in the nation to earn the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education's "R1: Doctoral Universities - Very high research activity" designation, and its robust research enterprise includes experts in ocean science and engineering, polymer science and engineering, and large event venue safety and security, among others.  USM is also one of only 37 institutions in the nation accredited in theatre, art and design, dance and music. As an economic driver, USM generates an annual economic impact of more than $600 million across the state. USM welcomes a diverse student body of more than 14,000, representing 71 countries, all 50 states, and every county in Mississippi. USM students have collected four Truman Scholarships and 37 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships, while also leading Mississippi with 27 Goldwater Scholarships, an honor that recognizes the next generation of great research scientists. Home to the Golden Eagles, USM competes in 17 Division I sports sponsored by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). For more information, visit www.usm.edu .

    As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.