Research Associate in Materials Science and Engineering

The Cai Soft Biomatter Laboratory (http://softbiomatter.org/) at the University of Virginia is seeking to fill a Postdoctoral Researcher position in Polymers and Soft Bio(Materials). The project will focus on synthesis, understanding, and applications of bottlebrush polymers. This project is based on our recent discovery of foldable bottlebrush polymers, which feature a collapsed backbone densely grafted with many short side chains [Science Advances, 2024; front cover; https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adq3080]. Unlike classical linear polymers, mechanical, physical, and biochemical complexities can be independently encoded into the molecular architecture of foldable bottlebrush polymers. This feature allows foldable bottlebrush polymers to emerge as a platform for soft (bio)materials design and innovation.

The candidate will again a closed-loop training integrating chemical synthesis, in situ characterization, theory, advanced manufacturing, and translation within the group. Additionally, the candidate will have the opportunity to collaborate with clinicians to directly apply the developed the technology and biomaterials to clinical settings.

Additional responsibilities include managing laboratory facilities, performing measurements, updating equipment, developing procedures for operation and safety, supporting undergraduate/graduate research and fielding questions regarding procedures. The successful applicant will also participate in guiding students in measurements and analysis of their data as well as helping to draft proposals, reports, and research papers. The appointment will be for one-year, renewable pending satisfactory performance and funding.

Qualification requirements: Candidates must have a PhD degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field by the start date. Candidates with expertise in polymer chemistry, organic synthesis, tissue engineering, or drug delivery are strongly encouraged to apply. However, qualified candidates with other background will also be considered. Good oral and written communication skills, as well as attention to detail and good record keeping, are essential.

Application procedure: Apply on-line at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us/en/job/R0072990 and submit a one-page cover letter, CV, a one-page research statement, a 3-slide presentation that summarizes your previous work, and the contact information for three references. Upload all materials into the resume submission field, multiple documents can be submitted into this one field.

Application deadline: Review of applications will begin on June 5, 2025, and the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

This is a one-year appointment; however, the appointment may be renewed for an additional one year, contingent upon satisfactory performance.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Prof. Liheng Cai at liheng.cai@virginia.edu.

For questions about the application process, please contact please contact Richard Haverstom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@virginia.edu.

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.