Postdoctoral Research Associate

University Description The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a leading public research institution committed to excellence in education, research, public engagement, and economic development. With more than 3,000 faculty members, the university generates impactful discoveries that drive innovation and are recognized with prestigious academic and creative awards. Its strong academic programs, extensive research infrastructure, and global opportunities attract highly motivated students and scholars from around the world. The campus fosters collaboration across disciplines, supports international experiences, and hosts hundreds of student organizations. Lab Research Our research focuses on how peripheral immune cells that infiltrate into the CNS during autoimmune and infectious diseases contribute to neuronal damage and dysfunction, and how neuronal damage associated with neurodegenerative diseases can, in turn, alter peripheral immune responses. We also investigate how environmental factors (e.g., stress and toxicants) and biological factors (e.g., steroid hormones and aging) modulate the immune and neuronal systems, thereby influencing disease susceptibility, progression, and heterogeneity. In addition, we seek to harness the regenerative potential of endogenous neural stem/progenitor cells to promote neuronal repair and functional recovery in neurodegenerative diseases. By integrating neuroimmunology, neuroscience, immunology, disease models, and behavioral analysis, we aim to identify the cellular and molecular mechanisms that determine disease outcomes in individual contexts. We further pursue translational and drug discovery studies to develop novel therapeutic strategies based on discoveries from our basic research. The long-term goal of our laboratory is to uncover fundamental mechanisms of neuroimmune diseases and translate these discoveries into novel and effective therapeutic approaches.Role Description The Postdoctoral Research Associate is a full-time, on-site position located in Urbana, IL. The role involves designing and conducting advanced research projects, performing laboratory experiments, and analyzing complex datasets in collaboration with faculty and research teams. The associate will prepare manuscripts, reports, and presentations, contribute to grant proposals, and disseminate research findings at conferences and seminars. Day-to-day responsibilities also include mentoring and training students, supporting instructional activities where appropriate, and engaging in the scholarly community within the department and the broader university. The position offers opportunities for professional development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the development of an independent research profile.QualificationsDemonstrated expertise in Laboratory Skills and experimental methods relevant to the research area.Strong Research abilities, including project design, literature review, and scholarly writing.Advanced knowledge of Neuroscience, Immunology, or a closely related field, with a solid theoretical and applied foundation.Proficiency in Data Analysis, including statistical techniques, modeling, and use of appropriate software tools.Teaching or mentoring experience, with the ability to guide students and contribute to educational activities.Earned Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Immunology, or a closely related field before starting date. Effective written and oral communication skills, with the ability to present complex concepts clearly.Strong collaborative mindset, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple research tasks responsibly.Prior publication record in peer-reviewed journals and experience with grant writing are beneficial.