Candidates interested in a position as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Advanced Therapeutics Lab should submit a single PDF file including their C.V., the names and contact information for three references, and a cover letter describing their research interests and qualifications, as well as their availability to begin the appointment to Jiahe Li, jiaheli@umich.edu. 

The microbiome represents an exciting frontier in medicine, and early successes in the field have demonstrated the dynamic interactions among individual microbial species and highlighted the crosstalk between microbiota and their hosts at the mucosal interface.  The Li research group has been focusing on the development of molecular and live cell-based therapeutics, with a major emphasis on harnessing innovative synthetic biology, microbial engineering, and drug delivery approaches for improving human health in a sustainable manner. Currently, three directions are being explored: (1) engineering probiotics to secrete biologics such as nanobodies to address intestinal diseases; (2) understanding the interactions between oral microbiota and the host; and (3) engineering probiotics for cancer immunotherapy.  These efforts are supported by internal and extramural funding sources. 

Here is a link to the lab:  https://advancedbiotherapeutics.bme.umich.edu/

Responsibilities include following experimental protocols and maintaining detailed and rigor records, developing, and conducting in vitro and in vivo experiments using molecular and cellular biology techniques, including but not limited to Cloning, DNA/RNA extractions, PCR, western blotting, ELISA; performing purification of secreted proteins; maintenance of mammalian cell cultures; animal handling; and basic immunostaining and image analysis. The employee will also be needed in analyzing data, interpreting, communicating results, writing manuscripts, and presenting at conferences.

This position requires a PhD, preferably in microbiology, molecular biology, bioengineering, chemistry, or related discipline preferred. Candidates must be interested in working with technical aspects of cancer/rare disease diagnosis/therapy and their translations to clinical applications. Familiar with the operation and performance of basic lab equipment, i.e., centrifuge, microscopes, etc. Good organizational skills and abilities to work alongside other scientists without extensive supervision are also required. Willingness to learn new techniques as required for project progress.

Familiarity with molecular cloning, flow cytometry, immunoassays, organoid culture and animal studies is preferred. Experience of animal models is strongly preferred. 1-2 years of prior research experience is preferred, but not required.

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings.  Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally.  Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

About University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

A great university is made so by its faculty and staff, and Michigan is recognized as one of the best universities to work for in the country. The Michigan culture is known for engaging faculty and staff in all facets of the university to create a workplace that is vibrant and stimulating.For two consecutive years, the Chronicle of Higher Education has placed U-M in its "Great Colleges to Work For" survey. In particular, the university earns high marks for strong relations between faculty and administrators, a collaborative system of governance, strong pay and benefits, and a healthy work/life balance.

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