Postdoctoral Research Associate
The Szablowski Laboratory for noninvasive neuroengineering at Rice University seeks to hire a postdoctoral research associate. The Szablowski Lab is focused on developing technologies for noninvasive control and monitoring of the brain. In our work, we combine synthetic biology, molecular engineering, and strategies for enhanced gene and drug delivery into the central nervous system. Our goals are to understand neural circuit function and treat brain disorders with fewer side effects.
Due to its location at the boundary between Rice University and the Texas Medical Center—the largest medical center in the world—the lab is uniquely positioned to advance its technologies towards the clinic with active collaborations with clinician-scientists at MD Anderson Cancer Center, the Baylor College of Medicine, Houston Methodist, and Texas Heart Institute.
The position focuses on advancing research through expertise in molecular biology techniques, including DNA cloning, PCR, and site-directed mutagenesis, with next-generation sequencing experience preferred. Key responsibilities include developing new engineered molecules, packaging adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), and managing related contracts. The candidate will perform histological imaging, quantify imaging and histological results, and contribute to research documentation through detailed reports, presentations, and publications. This role emphasizes innovation and precision in molecular biology and imaging analysis.
The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in molecular biology techniques, including DNA cloning, PCR, and site-directed mutagenesis, with preferred experience in next-generation sequencing. They should demonstrate a proven ability to develop and optimize engineered molecules and possess knowledge of adeno-associated virus (AAV) packaging processes and contract management. Proficiency in histological imaging and image quantification is essential, along with strong analytical skills for interpreting data and deriving meaningful research conclusions.
In addition to technical expertise, the candidate should exhibit excellent communication skills, with the ability to prepare detailed research reports, professional presentations, and scientific publications. A high level of organization, attention to detail, and a commitment to precision in research and analysis are critical. Collaboration and teamwork are vital, as the candidate will often work in multidisciplinary environments. Finally, the successful candidate will have strong problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and a proactive approach to challenges.
This position is a four-year term-limited position funded by a recent grant. Continued employment is contingent on the performance and maintenance of the funding.
More info about Szablowski Lab: https://www.szablowskilab.org
Postdoctoral Research Associate
The Szablowski Laboratory for noninvasive neuroengineering at Rice University seeks to hire a postdoctoral research associate. The Szablowski Lab is focused on developing technologies for noninvasive control and monitoring of the brain. In our work, we combine synthetic biology, molecular engineering, and strategies for enhanced gene and drug delivery into the central nervous system. Our goals are to understand neural circuit function and treat brain disorders with fewer side effects.
Due to its location at the boundary between Rice University and the Texas Medical Center—the largest medical center in the world—the lab is uniquely positioned to advance its technologies towards the clinic with active collaborations with clinician-scientists at MD Anderson Cancer Center, the Baylor College of Medicine, Houston Methodist, and Texas Heart Institute.
The position involves conducting advanced research in focused ultrasound (FUS) and blood-brain barrier opening (FUS-BBBO) with an emphasis on gene delivery applications. The candidate will collaborate on experiments, particularly involving non-human primates, and utilize image-guided focused ultrasound techniques. Responsibilities include designing and optimizing protocols for FUS-BBBO gene delivery, performing histological imaging and analysis, and quantifying imaging and histological results. The role requires travel to collaborators’ research sites and active participation in FUS-BBBO experiments. Additionally, the candidate will document research findings through detailed reports, presentations, and publications, contributing to the advancement of focused ultrasound research and applications.
The ideal candidate is a highly skilled researcher with expertise in focused ultrasound (FUS) and blood-brain barrier opening (FUS-BBBO), particularly in gene delivery applications. They have experience conducting experiments involving non-human primates and proficiency in image-guided focused ultrasound techniques. The candidate demonstrates strong problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and critical thinking skills, enabling them to design and optimize protocols for FUS-BBBO gene delivery effectively. They excel in histological imaging, data analysis, and quantification of results, paired with exceptional organizational skills to manage complex research projects.
In addition to technical expertise, the candidate possesses excellent communication skills, including the ability to document findings through detailed reports, professional presentations, and publications. They are highly collaborative, capable of working effectively with multidisciplinary teams, and willing to travel to research sites to actively engage in experimental work. Their proactive attitude, attention to detail, and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge make them a valuable contributor to focused ultrasound research and its applications.
This position is a four-year term-limited position funded by a recent grant. Continued employment is contingent on the performance and maintenance of the funding.
More info about Szablowski Lab: https://www.szablowskilab.org