TTU Post Doctoral Research Associate

Position Description

Performs specialized Post Doctoral work in the planning, conducting and/or supervision of original research. Responsible for participating in a research project associated with PhD studies and the interpretation of the results of publication. Work is performed under supervision of graduate faculty members with evaluation based on accomplishment of assigned objectives and overall effectiveness of project. May supervise research and student assistants. Adherence to robust safety practices and compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations are responsibilities of all employees.

About the University

Founded in 1923, Texas Tech University began with a mission to serve the needs of West Texas, but its impact has always reached far beyond. Today, Texas Tech, located in Lubbock (pop. 300,000+), is home to a vibrant community of more than 42,000 students.Texas Tech's 1,800-acre campus showcases Spanish Renaissance architecture and is home to one of the country's largest public art collections. Its 13 colleges include a prestigious School of Law and a distinguished School of Veterinary Medicine. These programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their respective fields. Built on the values of West Texas - hard work, grit and authenticity - the university graduates students who are deeply engaged in service to their communities and well-positioned to succeed in the world. Texas Tech is committed to achieving research and scholarly accomplishments that compare favorably to the member institutions of the Association of American Universities (AAU). For more than 100 years, Texas Tech has been a premier destination for those seeking a world-class education and a unique, personalized experience as a member of the Red Raider family.

About the Department and/or College

Mechanical engineering is the largest major in the engineering college at Texas Tech University. The Department is ranked in the top 25 in producing B.S.M.E. graduates (a total of 274 schools reported) according to ASEE. In 2023-2024 academic year, the Department awarded 295 undergraduate degrees, 40 MS degrees, and 15 PhD degrees. In Fall 2024, the Department enrollment includes 145 graduate students and 667 undergraduate students who have met the requirements and been accepted to the Mechanical Engineering program. In addition, another 847 first-year undergraduate students have their concentration set for Mechanical Engineering and are working to complete the required foundational coursework/GPA requirements. This is a strong testament to the demand and strength for Mechanical Engineering.

Currently, the Department has 41 highly qualified faculty members from various backgrounds who conduct advanced research, advise students, and teach a rigorous curriculum. ME faculty serve as the investigators of numerous research awards totaling $4M per year. Many of the faculty members are fellows in their professional organizations, and many have received numerous teaching and research awards. Department faculty recognitions and awards include membership in the US National Academy of Engineering and foreign Academies of Engineering and Science, recognitions as Thomson-Reuters highly cited scholars, receipts of NSF CAREER awards, PECASE awards, and Department of Defense Young Investigator awards.

Major/Essential Functions

The objective of the group is to perform fundamental research in bioengineering, primarily focusing on cell mechanics and cell biology (currently working on breast and prostate cancer). This group's research directed by Fazle Hussain, PhD, NAE, has so far addressed the effects of cell signaling pathways on cancer cell mechanics, fluid mechanics, and metastasis, as well as the mitigating effects of naturopathic compounds, and nano therapy. The group is looking for a self-motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow/Research Associate ASAP. The group also addresses environmental cleanup and enhancement of lipids and valuable compounds in microalgae. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to lead the development of new projects in cancer, microalgae, and in related topics. Perform rigorous research, apply for external funding, and publish in top journals.

Required Qualifications

PhD in area of project specialization. Knowledge of modern research practices, the methods, resources, and standards thereof. Ability to organize work effectively, conceptualize and prioritize objectives and exercise independent judgment based on an understanding of organizational policies and activities. Ability to integrate resources, policies, and information for the determination of procedures, solutions and other outcomes. Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with other employees and the public. Ability to plan and allocate the workload of employees, providing direct training and supervision as needed.

This position is designated as involving access to critical infrastructure systems and/or research, as defined by Texas Executive Order GA-48. As such, candidates must successfully complete a comprehensive background check prior to employment. Employees are required to comply with all applicable state and federal regulations related to the protection of critical infrastructure. Ongoing employment is dependent upon maintaining eligibility for access and successfully passing periodic security and compliance reviews.

Preferred Qualifications

• Have strong conceptual backgrounds in bioengineering, biochemistry or biophysics.
• Be able to perform independent studies, as well as function proactively and collegially in a team setting.
• Possess strong written and oral communication skills.

Pay Range

$48,000 - $63,700 - $78,400

To apply, visit workattexastech.com

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or status as a protected veteran.