Postdoctoral Research Associate - Clemons Lab

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Clemons Lab

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Postdoctoral Research Associate - Clemons Lab.

Position Details Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

United States Division School of Polymer Science and Engineering Position Type Staff Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded Yes Pay Grade

Generic Grade

Posting Close Date Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants should submit a cover letter describing how their experience aligns with the position requirements, as well as how they envision contributing to the Clemons Lab's mission of leveraging polymeric materials for the betterment of human health. Applicants must also upload a curriculum vitae (CV) that includes contact information for three references. To learn more about the Clemons Lab, please visit: www.clemonslab.com.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The Postdoctoral Researcher will conduct and lead biological assessment studies for advanced polymeric materials developed for medical, therapeutic, and biological applications within the Clemons Lab at The University of Southern Mississippi's School of Polymer Science and Engineering. This position focuses on designing and performing biological experiments to evaluate cellular responses, mechanisms of action, and the therapeutic potential of newly developed materials. The researcher will collaborate closely with materials scientists, polymer chemists, and biological research partners to integrate biological testing with materials development. Responsibilities include analyzing experimental data, contributing to research publications and grant proposals, and supporting ongoing interdisciplinary research initiatives within the lab. This is a full-time, 12-month appointment, with continuation contingent upon the availability of external funding.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead biological evaluation of polymeric materials, including execution and optimization of in vitro cellbased assays, cytotoxicity testing, transfection studies, and molecular analyses (qPCR, SDSPAGE, Western blotting).
• Design, perform, and interpret experiments in support of projects involving targeted protein degradation, polymeric nucleic acid delivery, and gene regulation for agricultural and biomedical applications.
• Perform imagingbased assessments, including fluorescent microscopy, confocal microscopy, and immunohistochemistry to characterize cellular and molecular responses.
• Mentor and train graduate and undergraduate researchers, fostering a supportive, collaborative learning environment and promoting highquality experimental practices.
• Lead data management, analysis, documentation, and dissemination, including preparation of manuscripts, conference presentations, and contributions to grant proposals.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctoral Degree from an accredited college or university in Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Materials Science, Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, or a related field. Doctoral degree must be obtained by the start date of June 2026. Must have Three (3) years of experience with in vitro cell culture, including aseptic technique and the routine maintenance of mammalian cell lines. Proficiency in cellular and molecular biology assays is also required, including cytotoxicity assays, transfection, qPCR, SDS-PAGE, and Western blotting.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Expertise in cellbased experiments and quantitative biological analysis.
• Proficiency with fluorescent and/or confocal microscopy, and imagingbased data interpretation
• Ability to perform immunohistochemistry, staining, and labeling techniques
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and scientific communication skills
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team and contribute to a collaborative and supportive laboratory culture
• Commitment to mentorship, training, and the professional development of junior researchers
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to review and edit manuscript drafts and produce publication quality writing and presentations
• Ability to work collaboratively as a member of a team
• Ability to organize, document, and manage experimental data to researchgrade standards

Preferred Qualifications

Two (2) years of experience working with polymer-biological interfaces, therapeutic delivery systems, or protein and nucleic acid analysis are preferred. Two (2) years of experience with peptide synthesis and purification and recombinant expression and purification of nucleic acids is desirable. Two (2) years of experience contributing to scientific manuscripts, grant proposals, or conference presentations.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.