Postdoctoral Fellow in Intestinal Development

The O’Connell lab studies regulation of intestinal and immune development in the premature infant and neonate. We currently have two projects that are in need of a postdoctoral fellow, and we will be hiring a single fellow for one of these projects, based on which project we get the best fit for in an applicant. We are seeking a curious and creative, self-motivated postdoctoral fellow or postdoctoral associate to lead either :

1. a project to advance our investigations into the role of postnatal exposures in modulating gut development, particularly in premature infants. This will involve iPSC-derived organoid and organ-on-a-chip models, as well as some mouse work. An ideal candidate would have a background in cell or molecular biology or immunology and lab experience with intestinal epithelial biology and/or mucosal immunology.
2. a project to understand the role of extracellular matrix (ECM) in intestinal niche development. This involves studying the components of the ECM and recreating ECM variables in vitro to analyze the effects on the stem cell niche. This will involve iPSC-derived organoid and organ-on-a-chip models. An ideal candidate will have a background in developmental or cellular biology and experience working with organoid systems.

In additional to its scientific aims, our lab has a strong emphasis on morality, empathy and humanity. All types of candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Please learn more about our lab at www.NiiCE.org.

Job Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in cell biology, molecular biology, developmental biology, immunology, or other highly relevant field (or medical doctorate with relevant research experience)
• Experience with a variety of analytic approaches such as cell culture, flow cytometry, RNASeq, and immunofluorescence microscopy.
• Ability to work with both human and animal-based models R or Python programming expertise is a plus, but not mandatory
• Excellent oral and written English language skills
• History of manuscript productivity is needed to be a competitive applicant
• Strong references
• Preference for working in a highly collaborative, team-based laboratory culture

Responsibilities:

• Design and implement experimental approaches
• Mastery of the relevant literature and continued monitoring
• Contribute to laboratory meetings
• Oversight/teaching of students or other junior trainees in the lab
• Be available to give advice/feedback on complimentary projects in the lab
• Maintain an up-to-date and comprehensive electronic lab manual
• Prepare manuscripts for publication
• Occasionally present work at conferences and meetings
• Be open to collaborations with other research groups
• Some weekends and off hours will be needed

Benefits:

Insurances: Healthcare (Choice of HMO or PPO), dental, vision, disability, life.

Also options for FSA/HSA contributions and legal plan. Commuter benefits.

Retirement – 403(b) available for personal contributions from time of hire.  After 2.5 years of service the hospital makes a 4% contribution annually.

Parental Leave benefits.

Vacation – 20 days paid off per year.

Professional development/continuing education – 5 additional days paid off per year.

Additional schedule flexibility is available, with approval from PI.