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Job Description
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas invites applications for Postdoctoral Scholar of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) [R0145136].
We are seeking a motivated postdoc to join the Zhivagui Lab. Our lab uses computational and experimental methods to determine mechanism-based biomarkers for exposure and risk stratification to advance the understanding of cancer causation and tumorigenesis. The Zhivagui Lab focuses on cancer genomics for cancer prevention.
The incumbent will perform cellular and molecular lab work for projects investigating genomic and epigenomic alterations linked to cancer mechanisms, with a focus on biomarker discovery and validation.
We are specifically looking for a postdoc to spearhead experimental projects at the intersection of cancer genomics and experimental modelling. The postdoc will apply and optimize new approaches for NGS library preparation and analyze genomic data for variant calling. We value diversity of backgrounds in our team and seek candidates who can commit to a multiyear appointment, reviewed annually.
Design and execute experiments using molecular and cell biology techniques
Process human biological samples, including isolation of cells from blood and tissues; store and ship samples
Perform molecular biology procedures, including DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, gel electrophoresis, qPCR, ddPCR, next generation sequencing, and possibly others
Perform NGS library preparations, such as whole-genome and whole-exome sequencing, 10x RNA-seq, etc.
Perform cell culture procedures, including culture of primary cells, flow cytometry, single cell analysis methods, and possibly other techniques
Implement, trouble-shoot, optimize, and develop new assays, making innovative contributions to laboratory procedures
Assist with training of research methods and approaches to laboratory group
Maintain detailed written record of work performed
Perform analysis of experiment results and findings, including data collection, entry, statistical analysis, and graph creation
Produce written reports detailing results of experiments and analysis of results; draft manuscripts of results for publication
Present oral and/or poster reports at laboratory, local, and national meetings
Assist with composition of grant applications.
Assist in maintaining and monitoring all equipment and procedures for quality control
Review pertinent medical literature
The mission of the UNLV Office of Postdoctoral Affairs (OPA) is to enhance and support postdoctoral training and career development; serve as the central resource office for postdoctoral questions and issues for faculty, supervisors, mentors, and prospective and current postdocs; build a community for all UNLV postdocs; and provide professional development programs and networking events for postdocs.
UNLV currently employs postdoctoral scholars across a wide range of disciplines. Learn more about UNLV’s postdoctoral scholars.
This position requires a doctorate degree, PhD, MD, or MD/PhD from an accredited college or university as recognized by the United States Department of Education and/or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and experience in NGS technologies and genomic analysis.
Job requirements include:
PhD in biological related science, MD, MD/PhD, or equivalent combination of education and experience
Experience in high-throughput screening, next-generation sequencing, or bioinformatics.
Experience in cell culture of primary and stem cells. Preference for experience with iPSCs and organoids.
Knowledge of principles and practice of cellular and molecular biology
Working knowledge of safety standards in laboratories
Excellent organizational skills
Careful attention to detail; ability to accurately follow experimental protocols
Ability to manage multiple projects, tasks, and priorities to achieve desired goals.
Ability to think creatively, solve problems, and meet deadlines
Ability to work under minimal supervision
Strong written/oral communication skills
Ability to analyze data and perform statistical analyses.
Ability to make sound decisions in a manner consistent with the essential job functions.
A successful candidate will support diversity, equity, and inclusiveness and contribute to a respectful, positive work environment. They will use our Campus Values to guide their decisions and actions and demonstrate our Rebel spirit.
Salary commensurate with labor market and appointing authority’s availability of funds.
Competitive total rewards package including:
Paid time off, sick leave, and holidays
Excellent health insurance including medical, dental and vision
Comprehensive retirement plans and voluntary benefits programs
No state income tax
Tuition discounts at Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) schools
Tuition discounts for spouses, domestic partners, and dependents
Employee recognition and appreciation programs
UNLV athletics ticket discounts
Statewide employee purchase program discounts
RebelCard discounts on and off campus
Wellness programming for all UNLV faculty and staff at no cost
Opportunity for career advancements to leadership roles
Connect with colleagues with shared interests
Personal and professional development opportunities
A comprehensive onboarding program, Rebels: Onboard
Support and resources available for veteran applicants — contact [email protected] or visit our Veterans Webpage .
Submit a letter of interest, a detailed curriculum vitae (CV) listing qualifications and experience, and the names, email addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references who may be contacted. References will not be contacted until the search chair notifies you in advance.
Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience, with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications because this is the information on which the initial review of materials will be based. Materials should be addressed to Dr. Maria Zhivagui .
Applications must be submitted electronically through Workday. Please note that emailed materials will not be accepted.
Veterans are encouraged to apply. UNLV values the skills of those who have served. Learn more at Veterans Webpage or contact [email protected] for support.
For assistance with the application process, please review instructions on How to Apply . For further assistance contact UNLV Human Resources at (702) 895-3504 or [email protected] .
Submit a letter of interest, a detailed resume listing qualifications and experience, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references who may be contacted. References will not be contacted until the search chair notifies you in advance.
UNLV employees or employees within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) MUST use the “Find Jobs” process within Workday to find and apply for jobs at UNLV and other NSHE Institutions. Once you log into Workday, type "Find Jobs" in the search box which will navigate to the internal job posting site. Locate this specific job posting by typing the job requisition number, “R0145136” in the search box.
If you complete an application outside of the internal application process, your application will be returned and you will have to reapply as an internal applicant which may delay your application.
Founded in 1957, UNLV is a doctoral-degree-granting institution comprised of approximately 34,000 students and more than 4,451 faculty and staff. To date, UNLV has conferred more than 186,000 degrees, producing more than 151,000 alumni around the world. UNLV is classified by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as an R1 research university with very high research activity, and is a recipient of the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement. The university is committed to recruiting and retaining top students and faculty, educating the region's diversifying population and workforce, driving economic activity through increased research and community partnerships, and creating an academic health center for Southern Nevada that includes the launch of a new UNLV School of Medicine. UNLV is located on a 332-acre main campus and two satellite campuses in Southern Nevada.
Here at UNLV, we have come together and created one of the most affirmative and dynamic academic environments in the country. UNLV sits in the top spot in U.S. News & World Report's annual listing of the nation's most diverse universities for undergraduates. The university has ranked in the top ten since the rankings debuted more than a decade ago. We continue to show our commitment to serving our wonderfully diverse population and building the future for Las Vegas and Nevada.
For more information, visit us on line at: http://www.unlv.edu
The University of Nevada - Las Vegas (UNLV) is committed to providing a place of work and learning free of discrimination on the basis of a person’s age (40 or older), disability, whether actual or perceived by others (including service-connected disabilities), gender (including pregnancy related conditions), military status or military obligations, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, race (including hair texture and protected hairstyles such as natural hairstyles, afros, bantu knots, curls, braids, locks and twists), color, or religion (protected classes). Discrimination on the basis of a protected class, including unlawful harassment, which is a form of discrimination, is illegal under federal and state law. Where unlawful discrimination is found to have occurred, UNLV will act to stop the unlawful discrimination, to prevent its recurrence, to remedy its effects, and to discipline those responsible. Women, minorities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.
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Postdoctoral Scholar
Exempt
Yes
Full-Time Equivalent
100.0%
Required Attachment(s)
Submit a letter of interest, a detailed resume listing qualifications and experience, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references who may be contacted. References will not be contacted until the search chair notifies you in advance.
Posting Close Date
12/31/2026
Note to Applicant
This position may require that a criminal background check be conducted on the candidate(s) selected for hire.
HR will attempt to verify academic credentials upon receipt of hiring documents. If the academic credentials cannot be verified, HR will notify the faculty member that an official transcript of their highest degree must be submitted within thirty days of the faculty member’s first day of employment.
References will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process.
As part of the hiring process, applicants for positions in the Nevada System of Higher Education may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform job-related tasks.
For positions that require driving, evidence of a valid driver's license will be required at the time of employment and as a condition of continued employment.
All document(s) must be received on or before the closing date of the job announcements (if a closing date is provided).
Recruitments that provide a work schedule are subject to change based on organizational needs.
