Qureos Mentor

The University of Southern MIssissippi

<div><p><b>Postdoctoral Research Associate &ndash; Patton Lab</b></p>
<p>
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Postdoctoral Research Associate &ndash; Patton Lab.</p><br>
<div><div><div><div><b>Position Details</b></div>
</div><br>
<div><div>Location</div> <div>Hattiesburg<br>
<br>
118 College Drive<br>
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001<br>
United States
</div></div><br>
<div><div>Division</div> <div>School of Polymer Science and Engineering</div>
</div><br>
<div><div>Position Type</div> <div>Staff</div>
</div><br>
<div><div>Employment Status</div> <div>Full Time</div>
</div><br>
<div><div>Grant Funded</div> <div>Yes</div>
</div><br>
<div><div>Pay Grade</div>
<p>Generic Grade</p><br>
</div><br>
<div><div>Posting Close Date</div> <div>Open Until Filled</div>
</div><br>
</div></div><p></p><p><b>Special Instructions to Applicants</b><br>
Complete applications require a 1) cover letter summarizing the candidate&rsquo;s research experience and interest in the position, 2) a curriculum vitae and 3) contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position has been filled.<br>
<br>
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).<br>
<br>
<b>Job Summary</b><br>
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct and lead research on sustainable polymer materials within the Patton Lab at The University of Southern Mississippi&rsquo;s School of Polymer Science and Engineering. This position integrates fundamental polymer materials research with translational and innovation-focused activities to support the advancement of emerging technologies. The role centers on evaluating and advancing polymer materials for applications in sustainability and real-world use, contributing to the lab&rsquo;s overall research mission. The position operates within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment and supports the broader goals of innovation, research translation, and academic excellence. This is a full-time, 12-month appointment, with continuation contingent upon the availability of external funding.<br>
<br>
<b>Primary Duties and Responsibilities</b></p><ul><li>
Conduct independent and collaborative research on sustainable polymer materials, including design, synthesis, processing, and evaluation.</li><li>
Establish relationships between structure, properties, and performance using appropriate analytical, thermal, and mechanical characterization methods.</li><li>
Advance research toward translational readiness by identifying application requirements, performance benchmarks, and scalability considerations.</li><li>
Identify intellectual property and prepare invention disclosures, while participating in feasibility assessments and gap analysis.</li><li>
Prepare technical reports, peer reviewed publications, and presentations to communicate research findings and innovation outcomes.</li><li>
Collaborate with academic and external partners to support research initiatives and expand project impact.</li><li>
Mentor and train graduate and undergraduate researchers, support laboratory operations, and ensure compliance with research ethics and environmental health and safety standards.</li><li>
Perform other duties as assigned.</li></ul><p></p>
<p></p><p><b>
Minimum Qualifications</b><br>
Doctoral Degree from an accredited college or university in Polymer Science and Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related field. Dissertation must be defended and approved, and all degree requirements must be met prior to the start of the position. Two (2) years of experience with multi-step organic and polymer synthesis, purification, monomer and polymer characterization, and related polymer laboratory techniques.<br>
<br>
<b>Knowledge, Skills &amp; Abilities</b></p><br>
<ul><li>
Knowledge of polymer chemistry, polymer characterization, and polymer processing techniques</li><li>
Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills in experimental research</li><li>
Strong written and oral scientific communication skills, including preparation of manuscripts, technical reports, and presentations</li><li>
Ability to review and edit manuscript drafts and produce publication-quality writing</li><li>
Ability to organize, document, and manage experimental data to research-grade standards</li><li>
Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team and contribute to a collaborative and supportive laboratory culture</li><li>
Commitment to mentorship, training, and professional development of junior researchers</li></ul><p><b>
Preferred Qualifications</b><br>
Two (2) years of experience with polymer processing or fabrication techniques used to prepare polymer materials for characterization and performance testing. Two (2) years of experience preparing or contributing to peer-reviewed manuscripts, grant proposals, or conference presentations.<br>
<br>
</p><p></p><p><b>About The University of Southern Mississippi</b>
<br>
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.<br>
<br>
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
<br>
<br>
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We&rsquo;re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.</p>
<p>
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.</p></div>

Postdoctoral Research Associate – Patton Lab

<div><p><b>McNair Scholars Program Assistant Director</b></p>
<p>
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of McNair Scholars Program Assistant Director.</p><br>
<div><div><div><div><b>Position Details</b></div>
</div><br>
<div><div>Location</div> <div>Hattiesburg<br>
<br>
118 College Drive<br>
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001<br>
United States
</div></div><br>
<div><div>Division</div> <div>Graduate School</div>
</div><br>
<div><div>Position Type</div> <div>Staff</div>
</div><br>
<div><div>Employment Status</div> <div>Full Time</div>
</div><br>
<div><div>Grant Funded</div> <div>Yes</div>
</div><br>
<div><div>Salary Range</div> <div>45,922.00 - 45,922.00</div>
</div><br>
<div><div>Pay Grade</div>
<p>E08</p><br>
</div><br>
<div><div>Posting Close Date</div> <div>April 17, 2026</div>
</div><br>
</div></div><p></p><p><b>Special Instructions to Applicants</b><br>
Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter. Review of applications will begin on April 6, 2026, and will continue until the position closes on April 17, 2026.<br>
<br>
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).<br>
<br>
<b>Job Summary</b><br>
The Assistant Director (AD) works in partnership with the Director to develop, coordinate, and implement all aspects of the McNair program and is in direct contact with McNair Scholars. The Assistant Director&rsquo;s primary responsibilities are to coordinate recruitment efforts, maintain active scholar and alumni records, plan events, programs, and workshops, and develop strategic communications that support the program's goals. The AD is also responsible for assisting with teaching scholars about the research process (GRD 450 and GRD 452). In this capacity, the AD works directly with scholars to assess and monitor their academic needs, performance, and completion of their McNair research projects by conducting structured scholar check-ins each semester. This AD is also responsible for educating scholars about the requirements for successful admission into graduate school (GRD 451). The AD facilitates graduate school visits and programs that expose scholars to the full scope of the graduate student experience. The AD also manages the program&rsquo;s graduate assistant(s), administering tasks and directing their professional development. The AD establishes continuous contact with McNair alumni and maintains long-term records to assist the Director with the Program&rsquo;s Annual Performance Report (APR) and the grant renewal process. The AD has the leadership skills, knowledge, and capacity to serve as the director's stand-in as needed.<br>
<br>
<b>Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities</b></p><ul><li>
Coordinates classroom visits, participates in campus wide events, develops recruitment activities, assists with interviews and scholar selection, and initiates interdepartmental collaboration.</li><li>
Maintains the program website, updates and revises communication materials, develops and manages a social media content calendar, curates content, distributes communication across multiple channels, and utilizes content management tools such as Canva.</li><li>
Builds and maintains the program&rsquo;s records management system, including organizing files and collecting documentation related to student eligibility, academic progress, and key administrative records. Administers alumni surveys to support Annual Performance Report data collection, develops and maintains the scholar handbook, assists with maintaining the faculty mentor handbook, and ensures confidentiality of student records.</li><li>
Builds and maintains the program&rsquo;s records management system, including organizing files and collecting documentation related to student eligibility, academic progress, and key administrative records. Administers alumni surveys to support Annual Performance Report data collection, develops and maintains the scholar handbook, assists with maintaining the faculty mentor handbook, and ensures confidentiality of student records.</li><li>
Assists with teaching GRD 450 and GRD 452 courses, which introduce scholars to the research process including topic selection, proposal design, literature review development, Institutional Review Board navigation, data collection and analysis, and academic writing. May assume teaching responsibilities for these courses upon completion of appropriate training and teaches GRD 451, a summer course focused on graduate school preparation, including funding, personal statements, financial literacy, and Graduate Record Examination preparation.</li><li>
Supervises McNair graduate assistants and performs other duties as assigned.</li></ul><p></p>
<p></p><p><b>
Minimum Qualifications</b><br>
Master&rsquo;s degree in communication, education, or other field relevant to program objectives; Three (3) years of experience working with underrepresented students in an education setting, or experience in counseling, coordinating programs, teaching, tutoring, or remedial teaching.Three (3) years of experience in either student recruitment, public relations, marketing, or strategic communication.<br>
<br>
<b>Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)</b></p><ul><li>
Requires proficiency with Microsoft Office, taking photos and creating videos, website management, graphic design, social media platforms, Canvas LMS, content creation tools (e.g., Canva), and the ability to learn new software applications.
</li><li>Excellent oral and written English communication skills. Knowledge of and the ability to communicate the expectations of graduate school admission and progression.</li><li>
Proficiency in public speaking, social media marketing, and content design.</li><li>
Ability to work evenings and/or weekends to facilitate service delivery</li><li>
Ability to travel for conferences, graduate school visits, and professional development opportunities</li><li>
Knowledge of the academic, economic, social, and cultural needs of underrepresented students (first-generation, income-eligible, and racially minoritized groups). Familiar with teaching methods proven effective in serving the needs of underrepresented students.
</li><li>Organized and able to manage multiple concurrent projects with optimal outcomes.</li><li>
Exhibits excellent interpersonal skills: collaborative team player who effectively engages and interacts with undergraduate students, service delivery facilitators, and other campus constituents.</li></ul><p><b>
Preferred Qualifications</b><br>
Prior experience as a McNair Program staff member or a McNair Program alumnus. Five (5) years of experience in marketing, communication, conducting research, and/or recruitment is highly desirable.
</p><p></p><p><b>About The University of Southern Mississippi</b>
<br>
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.<br>
<br>
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
<br>
<br>
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We&rsquo;re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.</p>
<p>
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.</p></div>

McNair Scholars Program Assistant Director

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The University of Southern MIssissippi

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Postdoctoral Research Associate – Patton Lab

McNair Scholars Program Assistant Director