How to Apply

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. Applications submitted before Jan 1, 2024 will receive full consideration with an anticipated start date of Jan 2, 2024.

Summary

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/

Mission Statement

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.

Why Join Michigan Medicine?

Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world’s most distinguished academic health systems.  In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.

What Benefits can you Look Forward to?

• Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day

• 2:1 Match on retirement savings

Responsibilities*

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.

Required Qualifications*

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.

Desired Qualifications*

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.

Background Screening

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.

Application Deadline

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.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

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