Job DescriptionThe STEP Lab in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Virginia Tech seeks highly motivated and enthusiastic candidates for a postdoctoral associate position. STEP lab uses patented technologies to recreate fibrous in vivo environments and measure cell forces. This position will provide an opportunity to work in a highly collaborative interdisciplinary environment as part of a team of experimentalists, biologists and clinicians.The project will study the underlying biology of spheroid formation and dynamics on suspended ECM-mimicking fiber networks and explore their translational potential. The selected candidate will also be encouraged to pursue complementary new research directions, apply for independent grants and fellowships, and be mentored to develop scientific leadership and management skills.Compensation for this position will be at or above NIH guidelines and include competitive benefits and a retirement package offered by Virginia Tech. The position is available starting as soon as possible and is eligible for annual renewal contingent upon satisfactory progress and continued funding.Required Qualifications- Ph.D., in biology, biophysics, bioimaging, bio-engineering or a closely related discipline. PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.- Proven track record of outstanding research that is reflected in publications.- Experience working with Biosafety Level-2 (BSL-2), proficiency in standard cell- and molecular-biological techniques, omics, and imaging. However, training to acquire new skills in nanofabrication and characterization will be offered.- Strong communication skills, enthusiasm to conduct independent and collaborative interdisciplinary research, and the ability and willingness to mentor graduate and undergraduate students.Appointment TypeRestrictedReview DateJune 26, 2023Additional InformationThe successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.About Virginia TechDedicated to its motto,Ut Prosim(That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive communitydedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicinecollege, Graduate School , andHonors College . The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including theInnovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerousExtension offices andresearch centers . A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contactAmanda ****** regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
