Postdoctoral Research Associate I - Department of Surgery

Position Highlights

The Department of Surgery is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate I to lead and support translational research projects focused on wound healing, fibrosis, and regenerative medicine within the Gurtner Lab. This position will drive independent and collaborative research efforts integrating molecular biology, animal models, single-cell sequencing, and spatial transcriptomics. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will design and execute experiments, analyze complex datasets, and contribute to high-impact publications and grant development. This role provides advanced training in translational science within a research environment.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

Duties & Responsibilities

Independent Research and Experimental Design

• Design, execute, and optimize experimental protocols related to wound healing, tissue regeneration, and fibrosis.
• Lead studies utilizing animal models under IACUC-approved protocols.
• Apply advanced techniques including molecular biology, histology, flow cytometry, imaging, and omics platforms (e.g., scRNA-seq, spatial transcriptomics).
• Develop and troubleshoot novel methodologies aligned with lab research goals.

Data Analysis, Interpretation, and Dissemination

• Analyze complex biological datasets using appropriate statistical and computational tools.
• Prepare figures, manuscripts, and abstracts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Present findings at lab meetings, institutional seminars, and national/international conferences.

Grant Writing and Research Development

• Contribute to the preparation of grant applications (NIH, DoD, NSF, foundation funding).
• Assist in developing research aims, experimental strategies, and supporting preliminary data.
• Support ongoing funded projects including progress reports, renewal applications, and sponsor driven quarterly reports.

Laboratory Operations and Compliance

• Ensure adherence to institutional policies, biosafety (BSL-2), and regulatory requirements (IACUC, IRB as applicable).
• Maintain accurate documentation of experiments and data in compliance with lab and sponsor standards.
• Contribute to lab organization, protocol development, and shared resource management.

Mentorship and Laboratory Leadership

• Mentor graduate students, research technicians, and undergraduate trainees.
• Provide technical guidance and training on experimental techniques and data analysis.
• Assist in coordinating collaborative research activities within and across institutions.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Advanced knowledge of experimental design and translational research methodologies.
• Proficiency in molecular biology, cell culture, and/or omics technologies.
• Strong data analysis skills (R, Graphpad or equivalent preferred).
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Strong scientific writing and presentation skills.
• Effective mentorship and team collaboration abilities.
• Knowledge of regulatory compliance (IACUC, IRB, biosafety).

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD, MD, or equivalent doctoral degree in biomedical sciences, bioengineering, molecular biology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience in laboratory research, including experimental design and execution.
• Evidence of scholarly productivity (e.g., publications, preprints, or significant contributions to research projects).
• Experience with the following: animal models, molecular biology techniques, histology, imaging, or omics-based approaches.

Posting Number: req25736

Department: Surgery

Location: Tucson Campus

Address: Tucson, AZ USA

FLSA: Exempt

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40

Job FTE: 1.0

Work Calendar: Fiscal

Job Category: Research

Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay: NIH salary guidelines, Depends on Experience

Compensation Type: salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies: 1

Contact Information for Candidates
Casandra Sanchez, casandrasanchez@arizona.edu

Open Until Filled: Yes

Documents Needed to Apply: Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter