Research Associate or Postdoctoral Research Associate (Fabris Group)

University of Connecticut; Storrs (CT); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Connecticut, Storrs, invites applications for a Research Associate or Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Fabris Group to study RNA post-transcriptional modifications (rPTMs) and their role in cellular responses to viral infections and stress. PhD in Life Sciences or MS with extensive experience encouraged to apply.

The appointment may be as a Postdoctoral Research Associate or Research Associate 1 depending on experience.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry or related field required or equivalent post-degree experience for Research Associate track.
• Experience in virology, cell biology, and gene silencing techniques is preferred.
• Background in RNA biochemistry, molecular biology and relevant bioassays is expected.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on dynamics of RNA post-transcriptional modifications in infected cells.
• Generate cell cultures with knocked-out writers, erasers, and readers of rPTMs.
• Perform control experiments using biochemical, spectroscopic and electrophoretic methods.
• Purify viral and host RNA for advanced mass spectrometric analysis.
• Optimize procedures and train/lead undergraduate and graduate researchers.
• Participate in design, data analysis, and manuscript preparation for publications.

Skills

PhD in Chemistry or related field

Virology experience

Cell biology experience

Gene silencing techniques

RNA biochemistry

Molecular biology

Bioassays

Mass spectrometry

Education

PhD in Chemistry or closely related field

MS in Chemistry or closely related field

Tools

Mass spectrometry

Job description

Research Associate or Postdoctoral Research Associate (Fabris Group)

Search #: 499840
Work type: Full-time
Location: UConn Storrs
Categories: Postdoctoral Research Associates

JOB SUMMARY

The Laboratory of Dr. Dan Fabris in the Chemistry Department at the University of Connecticut, Storrs, is seeking a Research Associate/Post-Doctoral Fellow to participate in Epitranscriptomics projects aimed at investigating the functional roles of RNA post-transcriptional modifications (rPTMs) in the cell response to viral infections and other types of stresses. Highly motivated individuals holding a PhD in the Life Sciences or an M.S. degree with extensive experience are encouraged to apply.

This position will be hired at either the Postdoctoral Research Associate classification or the Research Associate 1 classification, dependent upon the incumbent's experience, skills, and abilities as determined by the University.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Postdoctoral Research Associate or Research Associate will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Conduct research aimed at elucidating the dynamics of rPTMs in human cell cultures infected with HIV-1 and hepatitis C.
• Generate and maintain cultures in which the genes for selected rPTM writers, erasers, and readers have been effectively knocked out.
• Perform proper control experiments by using a variety of biochemical, spectroscopic and electrophoretic techniques.
• Purify viral and host RNA for advanced mass spectrometric analysis.
• Optimize and troubleshoot current experimental procedures.
• Train and lead a team of undergraduate and graduate research assistants

Postdoctoral Research Associates will be responsible for these additional tasks:

• Participate in designing experiments and completing data analysis and interpretation.
• Write publications; participate in dissemination.

The incumbent will be expected to use initiative in the planning and execution of the different tasks; to maintain the research productivity necessary to cultivate a presence in the scientific community; to develop a good understanding of how to best prioritize the various tasks according to the situation on the ground; to maintain the maximum possible flexibility to facilitate the solution of unforeseen problems. No direct experience is required in mass spectrometry and related techniques. If necessary, appropriate training will be provided to the new hire.The incumbent will report directly to Dr. Fabris, the laboratory’s principal investigator.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Postdoctoral Research Associate:PhD in Chemistry or a closely related field.
• Research Associate 1: PhD in Chemistry or a closely related field and no experience to one year of post-degree experience; or an M.A. or M.S. in Chemistry or a closely related field, and eight to ten years of post-degree experience.
• Experience in virology, cell biology, and gene silencing techniques.
• RNA biochemistry, molecular biology, and pertinent bioassays.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) techniques.
• Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

The salary will be commensurate with qualifications and accumulated experience. The start date for the position is anticipated for November 2026. The position is for an initial one-year appointment and is potentially renewable for a second year upon mutual agreement, funding availability, and performance. Continuation beyond two years is contingent upon future external funding applications. Postdoctoral Research Associate - 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; Research Associate 1 -Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the American Association of University Professors UConn Chapter (AAUP).

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

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

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, ethnicity, religion, age, sex, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disabilities, veteran’s status, status as a victim of domestic violence and/or sexual assault and/or trafficking in persons as defined by Connecticut law, prior conviction of a crime, workplace hazards to the reproductive systems, or gender identity or expression

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO employer including for Disability and Veteran status.

Advertised: Sep 24 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Oct 26 2026 Eastern Daylight Time