Upstate New York HERC

Description:

The University of Houston College of Optometry invites applications for a tenure-track faculty positions at the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor in the Department of Vision Sciences. We are seeking exceptional biomedical researchers focused on the biological control mechanisms of human refractive error, with a strong emphasis on translational research using marmosets as a model system.

Research Focus
Successful candidates will be expected to establish and maintain an externally funded research program centered on:
• Mechanisms of emmetropization and refractive error development
• Marmoset models for studying ocular growth and visual development
• Modern genetic and molecular methodologies, including:
o Genotyping and genome-wide association studies (GWAS)
o Functional mapping and gene-environment interaction studies
o Massively parallel reporter assays
o CRISPR-based genomic modifications
o Spatial transcriptomics
o Target cell/tissue identification
o Ocular tissue organoids
Candidates will have access to the College’s cloud-based data lake, enabling large-scale computational studies integrating biological, clinical, and behavioral datasets or requiring high-performance computing and massive storage resources.

Research Environment
The University of Houston College of Optometry offers a rich, collaborative, and well-supported research environment, including:
• A group of vision scientists using human subjects, animal models, tissues, cells, molecular, behavioral, and optical approaches
• A P30 Core Grant from the National Eye Institute (NEI), providing:
Instrumentation and optical design support
o Programming and application development
o Biostatistics consultation
o Histology and biomedical imaging services
• A T35 Training Grant supporting research training for professional students
• A patient base that supports patient-based and translational investigations
• Proximity to the Texas Medical Center, the world’s largest medical complex, offering unparalleled opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
• Existing strengths in biomedical research across the College and University, fostering a vibrant and innovative scientific community

Teaching Responsibilities
Faculty will contribute to the College’s academic mission by teaching in areas aligned with their expertise, including:
• Applied clinical vision science fundamentals
• Graduate-level physiological optics
• Mentorship of graduate and professional students

Salary and rank commensurate with experience.

Qualifications
Ph.D. in a relevant biomedical field
Postdoctoral experience
Strong publication record and evidence of research productivity
Commitment to collaborative and translational research

Application Instructions
Review of applications will begin immediately. For fullest consideration, apply by February 15, 2026.

Applicants should submit:
Cover letter
Curriculum Vitae
Two-page research statement
One- to two-page teaching philosophy
Contact information for three references

Contact
Dr. Vallabh Das, Department Chair: vdas@central.uh.edu
Dr. Wendy Harrison, Search Committee Chair: wwharris@central.uh.edu

Official transcripts are required for a faculty appointment and will be requested upon selection of the final candidates.

All positions at the University of Houston-System are security sensitive and will require a criminal history check. Individuals conducting research in critical infrastructure areas (i.e., communication infrastructure systems, cybersecurity systems, electric grid, hazardous waste treatment systems, and/or water treatment facilities) are subject to regular review to ensure the security and integrity of the research is maintained.

The University of Houston System and its universities are Equal Opportunity Institutions. Everyone is encouraged to apply.