Position Overview
One full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available at the University of Kansas Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Lawrence KS under the direct supervision of Ming Zhao, Ph.D., an Assistant Professor. This is a full-time salaried position that will occasionally necessitate work during evenings and weekends.

Seeking highly motivated individuals with a strong interest in leveraging synthetic and living biomaterials to develop novel biopharmaceutical formations for the treatment of complex and intractable diseases, such as cancer and genetic disorders. Experience in one or more of the following areas of polymer synthesis, gene therapy, and cancer nanomedicine is highly desirable for the positions. To gain insights into our research program and mission, please visit our laboratory website at https://pharmchem.ku.edu/people/ming-zhao-0. Candidates will primarily work on the delivery of biopharmaceuticals and validation of their effectiveness utilizing cell and animal models. Ideal candidates should have authored one or more first-author publications in internationally recognized peer-reviewed journals. Effective communication skills are necessary, and we value individuals who are highly motivated, self-driven, creative, and collaborative, capable of working both independently and as part of a team.

The position reports directly to PI Zhao and the selected candidate will work closely with the PI to establish experimental protocols and conduct experiments to achieve agreed-upon research goals. The Zhao Lab is housed in the Simons Biosciences Research Laboratories, in close proximity to the state-of-the-art Biopharmaceutical Innovation & Optimization center, Higuchi Laboratories Animal Facility, Multidisciplinary Research Building, and KU Innovation Park. Office space adjacent to the laboratory and a desktop computer will be provided.
Job Description
70% - Design and execute in vitro and in vivo experiments (e.g., immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, ELISA, flow-cytometry, ELISpot assay, or qPCR) to analyze the effectiveness of biopharmaceutical formulations.

15% - Assist in preparation of manuscripts for publication and compiling grant submissions as well as other documentation necessary for laboratory compliance. Present research results at conferences and scientific settings.

5% - Work in coordination with fellow lab members, including graduate students and technicians to achieve research objectives. Share expertise and contribute to a collaborative and dynamic research environment.

5% - Participate in regular communication with the PI via lab meetings and personal meetings.

5% - Establish then follow laboratory quality control and quality assurance policies and procedures, including appropriate documentation. Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Position Requirements
NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD in hand. Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an acting basis not to exceed six months. Upon verification of degree the appointment will be extended to its full duration.
Required Qualifications

1. Ph.D. degree in biochemistry, polymer chemistry, bioengineering, pharmaceutical sciences, chemical engineering, or related fields.
2. Experience in nanoparticle synthesis and characterization.
3. Experience with mammalian/microbial cell culture and animal models.
4. At least three years of laboratory experience.
5. Work experience that demonstrates quantitative analysis skills, including statistics and data presentation (GraphPad, OriginPro).
6. Previous work experience that required the ability to independently plan, multi-task, and complete projects.
7. Strong communication skills, as evidenced by application materials.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Hands-on experience in evaluation of vaccine effectiveness on mouse models.
2. Experience in polymer synthesis, such as living, condensation, free radical polymerizations, and et al.
3. Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing strategies.
4. Working knowledge of molecular biology techniques for protein, RNA, and DNA (e.g., molecular cloning, PCR, protein expression and purification, RNA synthesis).
5. Experience using biomembrane coating technology.
6. Proactive and self-motivated approach to research

Contact Information to Applicants
Ming Zhao, Ph.D.
mingzhao@ku.edu
Additional Candidate Instruction
A complete application includes an online application, cover letter, resume highlighting pertinent experience relative to the required and preferred qualifications and contact information for three professional references. Only complete applications will be considered.

Application review will begin on April 1, 2025 and continue until a qualified pool of applicants has been identified.
Advertised Salary Range
$58,656.00
Application Review Begins
01-Apr-2025
Anticipated Start Date
07-Jul-2025
Primary Campus
University of Kansas Lawrence Campus
FTE
1.0
Reg/Temp
Regular
FLSA Status
Professional
Employee Class
U-Unclassified Professional Staff
Work Location Assignment
On-Site
Disclaimer
The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and is the Title IX coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for Civil Rights and Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY.