What are the responsibilities and job description for the Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering - UTK position at University of Tennessee - Knoxville?
The Shurer Research Group in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate to investigate the biophysical principles that govern the organization and function of the cellular glycocalyx and plasma membrane. The lab combines experimental membrane biophysics, glycobiology, and quantitative imaging to understand how glycocalyx architecture and lipid domains regulate protein trafficking, signaling, and cellular interactions.
The postdoctoral researcher will lead projects exploring how glycosylation, lipid composition, and membrane mechanics coordinate to control processes such as membrane trafficking and viral entry. Research will involve live-cell and model-membrane imaging, quantitative image analysis, lipidomics, protein engineering, and biophysical reconstitution. The position offers opportunities for interdisciplinary, high-impact research at the interface of engineering and cell biology, supported by cutting-edge imaging, biophysical instrumentation, and core facilities across the University of Tennessee and Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
The appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to three years based on performance and funding availability. The anticipated start date is January 2026.
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will:
- Design and conduct experiments investigating glycocalyx and membrane biophysics using live-cell imaging, model membrane systems, and quantitative analysis.
- Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data to advance independent and collaborative research objectives.
- Prepare manuscripts for publication and present research findings at conferences and seminars.
- Contribute to the preparation of research proposals and progress reports.
- Assist in mentoring and training graduate and undergraduate researchers in the laboratory.
- Maintain a safe, organized, and inclusive research environment in compliance with university policies and safety standards.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Biophysics, Bioengineering, Cell Biology, Biochemistry or a related field (completed prior to the start date)
- Experience with experimental biophysics, quantitative fluorescence microscopy, or related biophysical or biochemical methods
- Strong record of peer-reviewed publications and effective written and oral communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with cell culture (mammalian and bacterial), protein expression or purification, or lipid membrane model systems
- Background in image analysis, computational modeling, or data-driven quantitative methods
- Familiarity with glycoprotein or lipid biochemistry, membrane trafficking, or viral entry mechanisms
- Passion for mentoring and training students
Work Location
- Location: Knoxville, TN
- Onsite
Compensation and Benefits
- Anticipated hiring range: $70,656.00 / year
Application Instructions
To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments. To be assured of full consideration, completed applications with all requested materials should be submitted on or before 11/30/2025.
- Resume or CV
- Cover Letter
- Representative scholarly work, such as a co-authored, peer-reviewed manuscript
- List of 3 Professional References
Salary : $70,656
