Visiting Postdoctoral Researcher, Science, Soft Matter

Universities Space Research Association (USRA) is currently seeking an entry-level exceptional Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our team and contribute to the development of cutting-edge experimental capabilities in the field of soft active matter. This position will play a pivotal role in establishing a comprehensive research program focused on chemistry and biochemistry-based investigations of soft materials.

The successful candidate will spearhead the creation of novel experimental platforms, including lab-on-a-chip systems, materials sealing capabilities, and sample preparation techniques for on-orbit applications. This individual will work closely with theoreticians in our laboratory, bridging the gap between theoretical predictions and experimental validation through the design, execution, and analysis of innovative experiments.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of a cutting-edge soft active matter research program and the establishment of experimental capabilities for future soft matter research platforms. The successful candidate will gain valuable experience in experimental design, data analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration, while advancing our understanding of the fascinating behavior of soft active matter systems.

Citizenship Requirement: U.S. Citizens and Legal Permanent Residents (Green card holders)

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

• Develop and construct advanced experimental setups for investigating soft active matter, including lab-on-a-chip devices, materials sealing techniques, and sample preparation methodologies for space-based research.
• Conduct well-designed experiments to test theoretical models, uncover new phenomena, and advance the fundamental understanding of soft active matter systems.
• Collaborate with theoreticians to reconcile experimental findings with theoretical predictions and refine models accordingly.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical and analytical techniques.
• Contribute to the establishment of ground rules and best practices for conducting soft active matter research on future soft matter platforms.
• Participate in the preparation of research proposals, reports, and publications.
• Present research findings at conferences and seminars.
• Assist in the supervision and mentoring of graduate and undergraduate students.

It is expected that the candidate will publish research results in conference proceedings and peer-reviewed journals.

Required Qualifications: 

Education: The successful candidate will have a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, or a related field, with a strong focus on experimental research in soft matter, active matter, or complex fluids.

Experience: The successful candidate should have the following: 

• Solid background in experimental techniques, instrumentation, and data acquisition/analysis methods relevant to soft active matter research.
• Proven ability to design and construct complex experimental setups from conceptualization to implementation, including microfluidic devices and lab-on-a-chip systems.
• Experience with sample preparation techniques, materials sealing methods, and space-based experimental protocols is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with numerical simulations or theoretical modeling of soft active matter systems is an advantage but not required.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and creatively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts.
• Proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW) and data analysis tools.
• Highly motivated, self-driven, and able to work independently as well as in a collaborative team environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

The candidate is also expected to: 

• Be a team player; 
• Be a self-starter;
• Have a willingness to learn and collaborate with other scientists; 
• Be curious and open to working on interdisciplinary subjects;
• Have strong verbal and written communication skills; and 
• Experience with documenting studies through presentations or written peer-reviewed publications.

Working Conditions: 

This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, etc. Extensive online usage. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform their essential duties and responsibilities.

Travel:  Negligible 
 
Applicants should apply to the posting at USRA Careers and include a letter of interest, resume, or curriculum vitae. 

 Additional information on USRA can be found at www.usra.edu.   

USRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity. 

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