Postdoctoral Associate

Job Description

A Postdoctoral Associate position in macromolecular and supramolecular chemistry is available starting on or around June 1, 2021 in Associate Professor John Matson’s laboratory in the Department of Chemistry. The work will involve the synthesis of various compounds and materials designed to release reactive sulfur species such as hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) upon triggered dissociation or decomposition. The compounds and materials will be characterized by common analytical techniques and their rate of decomposition and reactive sulfur species release determined. Select materials will be studied in mammalian cells. Preference will be given to candidates whose experience includes small molecule and polymer synthesis as well as mammalian cell culture. Applicants must have received the Ph.D. degree in chemistry or a related field. The salary will be based upon University guidelines and be commensurate with experience and will include fringe benefits. Appointment will be for one year in the first instance but may be renewed by mutual agreement. Information on the Matson Group is available at https://matsonlab.com/ .

Duties of the position will include:

- Synthesize small molecules, polymers, and materials that are designed to decompose to release hydrogen sulfide and related reactive sulfur species.
- Characterize compounds using various analytical techniques for small molecules and materials and measure the rates of decomposition and reactive sulfur species release from these compounds.
- Test the effects of materials in mammalian cells using routine assays.
- Use regular analytical techniques such as NMR spectroscopy, infrared and spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, etc.
- Prepare regular written progress reports.
- Submit manuscripts based on work to peer reviewed journals and present results at national conferences.
- Collaborate with faculty supervisor and graduate students locally and colleagues at other institutions and labs to achieve research objectives.
- Take the initiative in finding solutions to scientific problems that arise in day-to-day research.
- Pursue research goals with routine consultation, but limited supervision.
- Supervise/train undergraduate or graduate students in laboratory procedures.
- Assist in project design, execution, and interpretation of research projects to gain practical experience in the field.
- Prepare professional presentations, professional reports, and publications.

Required Qualifications

- Recent doctoral degree in Chemistry or appropriate related field, completed by the time of appointment.
- Skilled in organic synthesis.
- Experience with mammalian cell culture techniques.
- Strong work habits and the ability to work independently as well as with a research group and external collaborators.
- Strong skills in technical communication.
- Ability to mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

Preferred Qualifications

- Knowledge of polymer synthesis methodologies.
- Experience in cancer biology.
- Evidence of good project management.
- Evidence of developing publications based on research.
- Ability to work under limited supervision.
- Creativity, independence, and high motivation.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of personnel in the organization.

Appointment Type

Restricted

Review Date

April 26, 2021

Additional Information

The successful Candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges , a school of medicine , a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School , and Honors College . The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers . A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Brandi Webb at bowens20@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: April 13, 2021
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