"Postdoctoral Associate - Bioengineering"

The Tabor Lab in the Department of Bioengineering at Rice University is seeking a highly motivated and collaborative Postdoctoral Researcher to support a multidisciplinary, DARPA-funded project focused on developing a bioelectronic bandage for the prevention of wound infections in resource-limited settings. This position offers the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research at the intersection of synthetic biology, bacterial pathogenesis, and bioengineering.

The Postdoctoral Researcher will lead efforts to engineer bacterial strains that respond to light by secreting compounds that suppress virulence pathways in at least three ESKAPE pathogens--antibiotic-resistant organisms identified as critical threats to public health. Additional responsibilities include engineering strains that attract these pathogens toward localized treatments. The researcher will assess strain performance in vitro and collaborate with internal and external partners on in vivo testing. This position will not involve direct animal work.

Beyond the primary project, the postdoc will contribute to the broader research goals of the Tabor Lab, supporting collaborative efforts and helping to advance ongoing investigations across the group. This includes opportunities for mentorship, scientific writing, and professional development in a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment.

The ideal candidate will hold a Ph.D. in synthetic biology, microbiology, bacterial pathogenesis, or a related field. Preferred qualifications include experience with ESKAPE pathogens and genetic circuit design, along with a strong record of collaboration, communication, and initiative.

For more information about the Tabor Lab's research, please visit: https://taborlab.rice.edu/

Minimum Requirements:

• Ph.D. in synthetic biology, microbiology, bacterial pathogenesis, or a related field.
• No experience required

Skills:

• Foundational knowledge in synthetic biology, microbiology, bacterial pathogenesis, or a related field
• Familiarity with molecular biology techniques and microbial strain engineering
• Ability to conduct laboratory experiments and analyze experimental data
• Strong scientific writing and oral communication skills
• Commitment to rigorous scientific methods, lab safety, and accurate record-keeping
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment
• Strong organizational skills and initiative in a fast-paced lab setting

Preferences:

• Experience working with ESKAPE pathogens or related bacterial systems
• Experience constructing synthetic gene circuits or engineering bacteria for functional outputs
• Demonstrated interest in translational or applied microbiological research
• Experience mentoring students or contributing to team-based projects
• Enthusiasm for developing independent research directions and engaging in collaborative science

Essential Functions:

• Conducts research to engineer bacterial strains that modulate pathogen behavior in response to light
• Develops and evaluates bacterial strains designed to inhibit virulence or attract pathogens in vitro
• Participates in collaborative research with internal and external partners on in vivo model evaluation (does not conduct animal work)
• Designs and executes experiments using standard molecular biology and microbiology techniques
• Contributes to lab meetings, scientific presentations, and dissemination of research findings
• Supports manuscript preparation, grant reporting, and proposal development
• Assists in mentoring junior researchers and fostering a collaborative lab environment
• Maintains thorough and accurate experimental records and adheres to safety protocols
• Performs other related duties as assigned