Open positions
Open positions
Postdoctoral researcher opening in Fall 2026
Job description:
This postdoctoral position is expected to work on a project on understanding actin organization that drives anisotropic cell growth in roots. This project involves mutational analyses including identifying, generating and characterizing mutations affecting pathways in actin regulation, the generation and the testing of genetically encoded markers to determine protein function, complemented by protein biochemical analysis.
Responsibilities
The position will involve full-time, in-person work with occasional evening or weekend effort. The responsibilities include experimental design, data collection and analysis, manuscript preparation, and participation in the development of external funding proposals. The postdoc will provide mentorship to undergraduate and graduate researchers in the lab and contribute to maintaining a collaborative, productive research environment.
Required Qualifications
• A Ph.D. in molecular biology, cell biology, biotechnology, genetics, plant biology, biochemistry or related field, with official transcript provided as verification.
• Applicants who are ABD will be considered, provided that all PhD requirements are completed by the start date
• Publications in molecular biology, cell biology, biotechnology, genetics or a related field. Strong experience in cloning, microscopy with relevant publications to demonstrate their expertise.
• Ability to design and conduct independent research experiments and problem-solving ability. Strong organizational, communication skills and ability to work collaboratively.
Graduate students (Ph.D. or Masters)
The responsibilities include research duties such as experimental design, data collection and analysis and manuscript preparation, and teaching support in leading discussions, grading assessments and holding office hours. Students will be mentored directly by Dr Chin and will work collaboratively with other members of the lab.
Requirements
• Background in general biology, chemistry, calculus, physics
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• For international, English certification of TOEL (minimum 80), IELTS (minimum 6.5) or Duolingo (minimum 120)
• Research experience in Masters or undergraduate is favorable.
• 3 letters of recommendation
Students who are interested to work in the lab must apply through the University of Tennessee's graduate school application portal to enter the department's graduate program. Applications should be submitted by Dec 1st for priority consideration for the following August start.
Undergraduate Researcher
UT students in their sophomore year is highly encouraged to contact Dr Chin for potential projects in the lab, as part of BCMB 452 or BCMB 452R: Independent Research in Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology. Students typically sign up for 2 credit hours which is equivalent of 10 hours of lab work per week. Course syllabus and expectations is available here.
When contacting Dr Chin, please include a CV, information about your major, courses taken and briefly describe your research interest.
Scholarly Development Grants program is available for undergraduates to pursue independent research and travel grants.
Undergraduate Research Assistant
UT undergraduates enrolled in the Federal Work-Study program can apply to the lab as an undergraduate research assistant ($11/hour, up to $1500 per semester) through UTK student employment.
UT undergraduates can also apply for the Faculty Research Assistantships or Scholarly Development Grants' Research Assistantship with the Office of Undergraduate Research & Fellowships.