Job Opportunity: Postdoctoral Position in Biomaterials Design

Position Description

We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our interdisciplinary and collaborative team at UC Davis. The position is funded by a new, multi-year grant from the NIH. The Leach laboratory focuses on the design of biomaterials to instruct cell behavior, generate implantable or injectable replacement tissues, and work collaboratively with clinical partners to address challenging problems for patients in need. Current projects span from evaluating the influence of novel biomaterials on stem and progenitor cells to promote tissue repair or fight infection, studying the influence of aging on cell behavior, developing model systems to interrogate triggers of metastasis, and investigating the effect of the endogenous extracellular matrix on cell differentiation for the repair of musculoskeletal tissues. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to guide the development of new approaches designed to promote tissue formation and repair and be involved in the progression of said technologies from the bench toward the clinic.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have the following:

• PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related discipline
• Demonstrated expertise in characterizing the properties of biomaterials and tissues
• Excellent skills in mammalian cell culture, RT-PCR, and related molecular biology techniques, as well as expertise with various microscopy modalities
• Familiarity or willingness to work with small and large animal models
• Strong motivation and curiosity to pursue novel scientific questions
• Evidence of strong oral and written communication skills and effective organizational skills
• Enthusiasm to work as part of a team and mentor others

About the Leach Lab and UC Davis

The Leach Lab (leachlab.bme.ucdavis.edu) is located at UC Davis on the health sciences campus in Sacramento, the state’s capital, and is adjacent to the UC Davis School of Medicine, UC Davis Health, Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Shriner’s Hospital. We are only 20 minutes from the UC Davis main campus and our partners in Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, and the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

We are strongly committed to the career development of all trainees, and activities are incorporated in every aspect of this position. A significant emphasis is placed on mentorship of all trainees to ensure each person is moving toward their career goals.

How to Apply

Qualified, diverse candidates are strongly encouraged to apply! Applicants should send a cover letter describing their previous experience and career goals, a current CV, and the names and contact information of three references to Dr. Kent Leach (jkleach@ucdavis.edu). The position is available immediately, but we will wait for the candidate with the right combination of skills and interests.