Special Instructions to Applicants: All interested applicants should attach a resume in the supporting documents section of the application, preferably in a PDF format to avoid any formatting issues.

About Rice: 

Boasting a 300-acre tree-lined campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is ranked among the nation’s top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio, and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lectures series, courses and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities.  

Rice is also a wonderful place to work. Rice faculty, staff and students share values that are essential to our success as a healthy community. Those values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape Rice’s culture. They come through in the way we treat each other and the welcome we extend to our visitors. These values can be recalled simply by our name — RICE — Responsibility, Integrity, Community and Excellence.

Position Summary: 

The Szablowski Laboratory for noninvasive neuroengineering at Rice University seeks to hire a postdoctoral research associate. The Szablowski Lab is focused on developing technologies for noninvasive control and monitoring of the brain. In our work, we combine synthetic biology, molecular engineering, and strategies for enhanced gene and drug delivery into the central nervous system. Our goals are to understand neural circuit function and treat brain disorders with fewer side effects.

Due to its location at the boundary between Rice University and the Texas Medical Center—the largest medical center in the world—the lab is uniquely positioned to advance its technologies towards the clinic with active collaborations with clinician-scientists at MD Anderson Cancer Center, the Baylor College of Medicine, Houston Methodist, and Texas Heart Institute.

The position focuses on advancing research through expertise in molecular biology techniques, including DNA cloning, PCR, and site-directed mutagenesis, with next-generation sequencing experience preferred. Key responsibilities include developing new engineered molecules, packaging adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), and managing related contracts. The candidate will perform histological imaging, quantify imaging and histological results, and contribute to research documentation through detailed reports, presentations, and publications. This role emphasizes innovation and precision in molecular biology and imaging analysis.

The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in molecular biology techniques, including DNA cloning, PCR, and site-directed mutagenesis, with preferred experience in next-generation sequencing. They should demonstrate a proven ability to develop and optimize engineered molecules and possess knowledge of adeno-associated virus (AAV) packaging processes and contract management. Proficiency in histological imaging and image quantification is essential, along with strong analytical skills for interpreting data and deriving meaningful research conclusions.

In addition to technical expertise, the candidate should exhibit excellent communication skills, with the ability to prepare detailed research reports, professional presentations, and scientific publications. A high level of organization, attention to detail, and a commitment to precision in research and analysis are critical. Collaboration and teamwork are vital, as the candidate will often work in multidisciplinary environments. Finally, the successful candidate will have strong problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and a proactive approach to challenges.

This position is a four-year term-limited position funded by a recent grant. Continued employment is contingent on the performance and maintenance of the funding.

More info about Szablowski Lab: https://www.szablowskilab.org 

Workplace Requirements:  

This is an on-campus position. The chosen candidate will work with research animals, and have the ability to drive to a collaborator’s research site.  Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change. 

Hiring Range: $62,000 

*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

This position is a benefits eligible, full-time position funded by a grant, soft and/or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of funding. 

Minimum Requirements:

Ph.D. or other doctoral degree in Biochemistry, Biosciences, Bioengineering, Neuroscience, or related disciplines No experience required

Skills:

Knowledge of molecular biology techniques Familiarity with next-generation sequencing Data analysis and result interpretation Scientific writing and presentation skills Familiarity with AAV use in vivo Knowledge of molecular biology techniques such as DNA cloning, PCR, site-directed mutagenesis 

Preferences:

Experience with AAVs and large scale AAV packaging Experience with next-generation sequencing Experience with histology and image quantification

Essential Functions:

Design and develop new engineered molecules to support research initiatives Package adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) and oversee contract management for AAV packaging services Extract and analyze nucleic acids from tissues Analyze and quantify histological and imaging data to derive meaningful insights Conduct imaging of histological sections to support experimental objectives Prepare detailed reports, professional presentations, and research publications based on conducted studies

 

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University 

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. 

Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and the full inclusion of all qualified persons in the workplace. This commitment includes providing reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities. For applicants with disabilities who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please contact Rice University’s Disability Resource Center at 713-348-5841 or adarice@rice.edu for support. 

If you have any questions, please email us at jobs@rice.edu. Thank you for your interest in employment with Rice University.