Summary of Position: Mike Sadowsky and Alex Khoruts are looking for a highly motivated postdoc to work on a project related to the development of new and novel formulations of microbiota-based for a variety of human diseases. This project follows up on our encapsulation technology for intestinal microbiota transplantation in adult patients. However, an important goal is development microencapsulation to enable oral administration of live microbiota to patients who may have difficulty with capsules, e.g., young children. This postdoctoral project will help develop the technology and follow engraftment of intestinal microbiota in animal models and patients using DNA sequencing, qPCR, metagenomics and culturing methods.
Essential and Other Functions: 50% Conduct Experiments • Perform and coordinate laboratory microbiological techniques to encapsulate intestinal microbes in various matrices. • Independently conduct microbiological experiments to assess viabailty and stability of encalsulated micobes. • Characterize nature of encapsulated bacteria with respect to physical state. • Quantify free and matrix encapsulated microbes using microbiological, immunological and molecular biological techniques.
30% Design Experiments: • Participate in the design and implementation of research projects on both a day-to-day and long-term basis. • Troubleshoot complex research problems and modify protocols to improve efficiency.
10% Prepare Results and Reports: •Prepare and interpret results for publications and presentations. • Prepare project progress reports.
10% Supervision: • Direct and mentor undergraduate and graduate students.
Essential Qualifications All applicants must have a Ph.D. in microbiology, pharmacology, or a relevant field. Extensive research experience in molecular techniques, and analytical protocols is essential, and a demonstrated ability to independently design and carry out research projects and publish research results in a timely fashion.
Preferred Qualifications: Expertise in microbiology, microbial ecology, pharmacology, and analytical chemistry, is highly desired.
Internal Number: 338544
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