Post Doctoral Research Associate - Molecular Biology

Join Our Campus Community!

Thank you for your interest in joining the University of Wyoming. Our community thrives on the contributions of talented and driven individuals who share in our mission, vision, and values. If your expertise and experience align with the goals of our institution, we would be thrilled to hear from you. We encourage you to apply and become a valued member of our vibrant campus community today!

Why Choose Us?

At the University of Wyoming, we value our employees and invest in their success. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance. Benefits include:

- Generous Retirement Contributions:  The State contributes over 15% of your gross salary. With your mandatory employee contribution, the total contribution toward your retirement plan exceeds 19%.

- Exceptional Health & Prescription Coverage:  Enjoy access to medical, dental, and vision insurance with competitive employer contributions, that include 4 deductible options to suit your needs (https://www.uwyo.edu/hr/employee-benefits/health-life-benefits/index.html).

- Paid Time Off:  Benefit from ample sick leave, paid holidays, and paid winter closure.

- Tuition Waiver:  Employees and eligible dependents can take advantage of tuition waivers, supporting continuous education and professional growth.

- Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs:  Stay healthy with wellness initiatives, counseling services, and mental health resources.

At the University of Wyoming , we are committed to creating a supportive and enriching workplace. To learn more about what we offer, please refer to UW’s Benefits Summary .

JOB TITLE:

Post Doctoral Research Associate in Experimental Microbial Systems Biology

JOB PURPOSE:

The successful candidate will play a leading role in the experimental program of Dr. Palma’s research group, which is jointly affiliated with the Department of Molecular Biology and the School of Computing. The laboratory focuses on understanding how gene regulatory networks control microbial adaptation to environmental changes. The research integrates quantitative experimental approaches, synthetic biology, and mathematical modeling to identify the molecular mechanisms and network design principles underlying bacterial stress responses and cell-fate decisions.

The successful candidate will work with computational researchers to experimentally validate mechanistic models of gene regulatory networks. You will design and construct bacterial strains, develop quantitative assays to perturb and measure gene regulatory processes, and characterize cellular responses using techniques such as fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, plate-reader assays, and sequencing.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS:

You will be encouraged to develop research ideas, contribute to publications and grant proposals, present your work at scientific conferences, and mentor junior researchers. Computational or modeling experience is not required but valuable.

COMPETENCIES:

- Innovation

- Collaboration

- Analysis/Problem Identification

- Formal Presentation Skills

- Attention to Detail

- Technical/Professional Knowledge

- Good Communication Skills

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

A Doctoral Degree is required for this position, however, consideration will be given to applicants that are currently pursuing their Doctoral Degree and will complete the degree prior to starting work.

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Synthetic Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field.

Track record of scientific research, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications or manuscripts submitted for publication

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

- Molecular cloning

- Plasmid and strain construction

- Synthetic circuit design

- Fluorescence microscopy and live-cell imaging

- Flow cytometry

- Microfluidics

- Fluorescent reporter assays

- RNA extraction and RNA-seq library preparation

- High-throughput experimental approaches

- RT-qPCR

- Western blotting and ELISA

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS:

Complete the online application. The department additionally requests candidates upload the following document(s) for a complete application:

- Cover letter, briefly describing previous research experience, current research interests, and their alignment with the research of the Palma Lab.

- Resume or C.V.

- Contact information for four work-related references (references will only be contacted if you are selected as a finalist for the position).

This position will remain open until filled. Complete applications received by 12/12/2026 will receive full consideration.

WORK LOCATION:

On-campus: This position provides vital support to campus customers, and the successful candidate must be available to work and perform essential job functions on campus, understanding our location is at 7,220 feet above sea level.

WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS :

Work authorization sponsorship may be available for this position, conditioned on the non-applicability of the fees implemented in 90 FR 46027 to the visa petition.

HIRING STATEMENT/EEO:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for a position, please contact us at 307-766-2377 or email  [email protected] .

ABOUT LARAMIE:

The University of Wyoming is located in Laramie, a charming town of 30,000 residents nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountain West. The state of Wyoming continues to invest in its only 4-year university, helping to make it a leader in academics, research, and outreach with state-of-the-art facilities and strong community ties. We invite you to learn more about Laramie by visiting the About Laramie website .

Located in a high mountain valley near the Colorado border, Laramie offers both outstanding recreational opportunities and close proximity to Colorado’s Front Range and the metropolitan Denver area. Laramie’s beautiful mountain landscape offers outdoor enjoyment in all seasons, with over 300 days of sunshine annually. For more information about the region, please visit http://visitlaramie.org/