Biochemistry Postdoctoral Position The Purdue University Cytometry Laboratory (PUCL) is inviting applications for a postdoc position available as soon as possible.
Location: West Lafayette, IN (On-site)
Salary: $56,880/yr – $60,000/yr
Topic: In vitro device development for Schistosoma egg migration study
Project description: The candidate will work on an exciting study funded by the Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP), which aims to clarify how Schistosoma eggs are able to transit through the human gastrointestinal tissues despite lacking apparent locomotory appendages. The study will entail the development of microfluidic devices to realize in vitro models (organ-on-chip, organoid-on-chip) that recreate the human gastrointestinal (mesenteric capillary, epithelial/endothelial barriers, and the gut lumen) for use in the study of Schistosoma egg migration. This will include tracking multicellular interactions among host fibroblasts and immune cells associated with granuloma formation around a Schistosoma egg, and quantification of the forces involved in the migration from a tissue mechanics perspective. This is an international collaborative study which will require close collaboration with collaborators in Kenya who will be undertaking a similar study using in vivo models. The successful candidate will work in the College of Veterinary Medicine within the PUCL research environment with a dedicated team of staff and postdocs in a very high technology lab environment.
About the PUCL lab: Led by Prof. J Paul Robinson, the PUCL has a rich research history in cytometry and has developed a plethora of high-throughput spectroscopic techniques for cell and pathogen detection, including laser induced breakdown spectroscopy, elastic light scatter, single-photon spectroscopy, among others. The lab combines engineering with biological approaches to address fundamental challenges in pathogen detection in health and food safety. PUCL offers a welcoming and exciting research environment where you will work closely with members from diverse academic backgrounds (engineers, biologists, etc.) and nationalities, enabling you to foster your creativity and expand your research outreach. The lab nurtures interdisciplinarity research through collaboration and holds exciting lab discussions over PIZZA every Friday. A healthy work experience as well as work-life balance awaits you. More info on the PUCL can be found at: http://cyto.purdue.edu
Basic qualifications: We are looking for a postdoc who is enthusiastic about challenging new research fronts by combining engineering and biological approaches to answer fundamental biological questions. Specifically, we are looking for someone with these competencies.
- Experience in cell culture and handling (either primary or cell line).
Can fabricate in vitro models such as organ-on-a-chip or organoids (interest in this kind of research is emphasized). - Experience in fluorescence microscopy and molecular analysis using RT-PCR, qPCR,
- ELISA, western blotting etc.
- Experience working with microfluidic devices
- Ability to map mechanical factors such as tissue stiffness in a 3D culture platform would be a BIG advantage.
Key tasks and responsibilities:
- Design and develop in vitro models (e.g. gut-on-chip) to mimic the human gastrointestinal system.
- Perform 3D cell culture in a stiffness-tunable hydrogel and track cell dynamics in a 3D space using timelapse and fluorescence microscopy.
- Perform molecular analyses using western blotting, PCR and ELISA etc.
- Generate and record data, protocols and/or code for publication.
- Draft manuscripts and figures derived from experiments and other analyses.
- Interact with and support other laboratory members.
- Share and discuss research results with collaborators (may include international travel)
- Present scientific results and findings in relevant international meetings.
Mandatory requirements:
- PhD in biology, biomedical engineering, biophysics, biochemistry or other relevant science and engineering disciplines.
- Knowledge of microscopy and cell imaging.
Basic knowledge of molecular analysis. - Good knowledge of data analysis and presentation.
- Fluency in English (English is the main language used in the lab).
Preferential requirements:
Enthusiasm and readiness to challenge new research fronts.
Independence and flexibility in handling a research project and generating new ideas.
Strong interpersonal skills and demonstratable teamwork.
Ability to keep research records with transparency and accountability and be able to create an open and positive lab environment.
Ability to work in an inclusive environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.
Application Instructions: Application should contain:
A complete CV with a full list of publications and other relevant scientific achievements
A description of research experiences (max two pages)
Please briefly describe: 1) your scientific background, 2) your interest in this research project, and 3) how you can contribute based on your previous research experiences.
Contact information of at least TWO references.
How to apply: Please send the above by email to Prof. J Paul Robinson (jpr@cyto.purdue.edu).
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Salary/Benefits: Salary commensurate with experience (min. USD 56,880/year)
Other benefits will be in accordance with Purdue University work regulations.
Working hours: Flexible
Place of work: Onsite at PUCL, West Lafayette campus of Purdue University.
Biochemistry Postdoctoral Position, Biochemistry Postdoctoral Position
