Postdoctoral Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Job Description Summary
Organization's Summary Statement:
A postdoctoral position is available immediately to contribute to studies of neural crest and placode cells using chick and mouse model systems. The Postdoctoral Associate will engage in independent and collaborative research, support the training of undergraduate and graduate students, and contribute to the day-to-day operations of the laboratory of Dr. Lisa Taneyhill.
The role requires active participation in experimental design, data generation and analysis, and scholarly dissemination, including manuscript preparation. The successful candidate will operate within a dynamic research environment and contribute to advancing the lab's scientific objectives.
For additional information, please visit: http://www.ansc.umd.edu/people/lisa-taneyhill
Responsibilities:
• Design and execute experiments focused on neural crest and placode cell development using chick and mouse models.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data; contribute to figure generation and scientific reporting
• Prepare manuscripts for publication and assist with dissemination of research findings
• Maintain accurate, detailed, and reproducible laboratory records
• Support and mentor undergraduate and graduate students in experimental techniques and research practices
• Contribute to daily laboratory operations, including organization, inventory, and compliance with safety protocols
• Apply and maintain proficiency in relevant laboratory techniques (e.g., molecular biology, biochemistry, histology, microscopy, cell culture)
• Assist with mouse handling, colony management, and related experimental procedures
• Engage collaboratively with the PI and research team to advance project goals and timelines
Minimum Qualifications:
• Ph.D. in cell biology, developmental biology, or a closely related field
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in both independent and collaborative research environments.
• Foundational experience in laboratory-based research, including one or more of the following:
oExperience with biochemistry assays (e.g., immunoblotting)
oExperience with molecular biology techniques (e.g., cloning)
oProficiency in histology and immunohistochemistry
oExperience in embryological techniques
oExperience with cell culture methods
Physical Demands:
• This position requires the lifting and moving of moderately weighted goods (20-50 lbs., for example, Centrifuge Rotors) up to 25 feet, operating tissue culture cell tanks, utilizing hazardous chemicals, and compressed gases. While performing the duties within this job, the employee frequently is required to maneuver, handle, or feel objects, tools, or instrument controls. The position also requires prolonged periods of standing to include maneuvering obstacles which may require stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling and accessing necessary tools and objects. Furthermore, the employee is regularly required to operate a computer.
• To operate specific lab equipment, the employee must utilize devices and make observations from diverse angles of perception: adjusting exploratory and imaging devices as needed. Employees may work in conditions with fluctuating temperatures, including spaces up to 83 F for extended periods.
Preferences:
• Experience with advanced or specialized techniques, including:
oConfocal microscopy
oMouse handling and colony management
oExpanded molecular and biomechanical methodologies
• Breadth of experience across multiple experimental platforms relevant to developmental biology
Additional Job Details
Required Application Materials:

• Cover letter
• CV
• Official transcript
• List of three references

Best Consideration Date: 6/11/2026
Posting Close Date: NA
Open Until Filled: Yes
Financial Disclosure Required
No
For more information on Financial Disclosure, please visit Maryland's State Ethics Commission website.
Department
AGNR-Animal & Avian Sciences
Worker Sub-Type
Faculty Regular
Salary Range
$55,000-$65,000
Benefits Summary
For more information on Regular Faculty benefits, select this link.
Background Checks
Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.
Employment Eligibility
The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.
EEO Statement
The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.
Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice
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