JOB SUMMARY

Research in the Burke Lab at the University of Connecticut is centered on the synthesis and characterization of functional biomaterials, where we work with both natural polymers and novel synthetic polymers to add capabilities that current biomaterials lack. Our lab questions how polymers interface with biological environments by combining new material syntheses with microscopy, chemical and structural property analysis, and molecular biology techniques. A particular area of emphasis is the tailoring of polymer surfaces to induce changes in cell function and protein deposition/organization for regenerative medicine applications. 

This postdoctoral position builds upon our recent studies that have revealed the potential to tune self-assembly and therapeutic release profiles from protein-based biomaterials by tuning surface chemistries. This position will generate degradable materials for the treatment of post-surgical pain and for broader applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The successful candidate will lead the development of novel biomaterials, involving the synthesis and modification of polymers as biomaterials, synthetic polymer and biopolymer characterization, in vitro tissue culture and functional characterization, in vivo experimentation (small animal), and data analysis. The position provides opportunities to develop and publish innovative research and to contribute to high impact studies of biomaterials science. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct research in the field of biomaterials and tissue engineering, which includes synthesis and characterization of biocompatible polymers, hydrogels, films, and scaffolds for applications in regenerative medicine, drug delivery, and tissue engineering applications. 
• Propose creative and novel solutions to current biomedical problems by developing hypotheses, designing and carrying out experiments, analyzing results, and writing research papers and contributing to grant reports 
• Keep track of the current literature in biomaterials, tissue engineering, and related fields, with potential to write comprehensive review papers. 
• Engage in the dissemination of research in regular group meetings, internal seminars, national/international scientific conferences, and journal publications. 
• Submit postdoctoral fellowship applications and assist faculty in grant proposal writing (e.g., NIH, NSF, and DoD). 
• Work with the PI to manage other researchers, including trainees, graduate students, undergraduate students, and high school students 
• Engage in appropriate training of lab personnel and lab maintenance, including equipment maintenance and ordering supplies as the principal investigators require. 
• Work closely in an interdisciplinary environment with other members of the Institute of Materials Science to conduct and carry out the research, share research ideas, and come up with solutions for scientific/clinical problems. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. Ph.D. in chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, materials science, or related discipline by the start of the appointment.
2. Record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.
3. Demonstrated oral and written communication skills, including presentations, manuscripts, and reports. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Experience in protein and/or polymer chemistry and characterization, such as size exclusion chromatography, spectroscopy (NMR, FTIR, Raman), X-ray scattering (wide and small angle), and thermal, mechanical, and rheological testing (differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis, shear rheology). 
2. Experience with mammalian cell culture (immortalized cells, primary cells, and stem cells) and characterization (microscopic imaging, flow cytometry, and gene/protein expression). 
3. Experience with small animal experiments, including histology and immunohistochemistry.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This position is a full-time, 12-month appointment that is annually renewable, based on performance and funding availability. The University offers a competitive salary, and outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment. For additional information regarding benefits visit: https://hr.uconn.edu/health-benefits/.

Other rights and terms and conditions of your appointment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW), Local 6950. 

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Faculty and Staff Positions, Search #499410 to upload a CV, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references. Please also upload a research statement including a summary of previous research experiences and the candidate’s motivation for a postdoctoral position in biomaterials science. Suggested length: 1-3 pages. 

This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on February 27, 2026. 

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics, which may be found at https://portal.ct.gov/Ethics/Statutes-and-Regulations.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.