Postdoctoral Associate

Division: Pediatrics


Work Arrangement: Onsite only


Location: Houston, TX


Salary Range: $63,480 - $64,356


FLSA Status: Exempt


Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.


Summary


The lab is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate to develop novel analytical strategies to characterize the metabolism of polyphenols and quantify the impact of these molecules on animal physiology. The Postdoctoral Associate will be co-advised by Drs. Mike Dzakovich and Caitlin Vonderohe, and they will be responsible for optimizing intrinsic labeling systems for plants, developing high-throughput analytical methods for quantifying labeled phytochemicals, and conducting pre-clinical bioavailability studies in cell lines, enteroids, and piglets. Outcomes from these efforts will guide the selection of high-yielding crops used for human clinical trials aimed at determining impact of polyphenols on health.
Postdoc trainees are encouraged to engage in opportunities to advance their professional skills and scientific expertise, present and publish their findings, and develop their own independent line of research. The Postdoctoral Associate works effectively on a diverse, multidisciplinary team and has a zest for organization and accomplishing goals. Postdoctoral associates participate in the established CNRC Postdoctoral Training Program which involves forming a mentoring committee, monthly journal club, semi-annual research presentations, and weekly seminar series.

• Plans, directs, and executes advanced analytical chemistry studies involving plant-based foods and crops.
• Grows crop plants in controlled environment settings
• Establishes new research protocols and procedures.
• Works on execution of in-vivo and in-vitro metabolism and pathophysiology experiments
• Conducts bioavailability and metabolism studies in primary cell lines, enteroids, and piglets.
• Coordinates piglet care throughout the experimental timeline.
• Summarizes research findings and publishes results in peer-reviewed journals.
• Participates in the Children's Nutrition Research Center's Postdoctoral Training Program.
• Attends academic seminars and professional development activities.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

• MD or Ph.D. in Basic Science, Health Science, or a related field.
• No experience required.

• Experience with cell culture.
• Experience with large animal models.
• Experience programming/coding, working with sensors, electronics, and system automation.
• Experience with hydroponics and/or growing plants
• Familiarity with extracting and analyzing plant-derived chemicals with mass spectrometry.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively work in a team.
• Clear record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience with experimental design and statistical data analysis.