Post-Doctoral Fellow - Qiwen Dong Lab

Department: SOM KC Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetic and Immunology ----- Dong Lab

Position Title:

Post-Doctoral Fellow - Qiwen Dong Lab

Job Family Group:
Professional Staff

A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Qiwen Dong in the Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, and Immunology at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Our research program seeks to identify novel pathways used by bacteria to cause infection. One major area of research interest is how human pathogen Clostridioides difficile establish colonization and cause virulence. We apply interdisciplinary approaches, including genomics, metabolomics, molecular microbiology, microscopy, and pathogenesis studies using mouse models to address these questions.

Job Duties Outlined:
Research Overview:
Work with PI/faculty mentor, to design and perform research related to Clostridioides difficile infection. This may include molecular cloning, animal models of infection, and microscopy. Multi-omics approaches and big data analysis will be included. Perform data analysis, prepare data for presentations (oral and written), write manuscripts and other research documents. Contribute to grant applications.

The Postdoc will be expected to complete research projects under the guidance of the faculty mentor, record and interpret the results of their experiments in an (electronic) laboratory notebook, prepare publication‑quality manuscripts (including figures and tables) and publish in peer‑reviewed literature. Read literature articles, develop new ideas, and assimilate the information into their project design/interpretation. Dissemination of studies:
Interact on a regular basis with their faculty mentor and members of the laboratory to discuss experimental design and interpretation of results. Present research aims and findings at department seminars and at scientific meetings. Write and publish their results as first author in abstracts, manuscripts, and posters. Submit fellowship applications, as eligible, to bolster research funding and CV building for projects.

Attend and maintain compliance on all orientation and training sessions designated by the University and the Department of Microbiology, understand and follow all assigned duties, and attend regularly scheduled research team meetings. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. It is only a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, duties, and assignments.

Furthermore, job duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Education:

PhD in Microbiology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field

Work Experience:

Research experience using BSL-2 organisms and mouse models. This position requires a formal degree in the cited discipline area(s) to ensure that candidates have the foundational knowledge and skill set required to perform the duties of the position. The level of degree is based on accreditation requirements, institutional standards of academic and professional excellence, alignment with peer institution benchmarks, and contributes to the credibility and effectiveness of the role within the university community.

Work Experience:

Research experience with

C. difficile or related organism. Data analysis of “omics” data Animal models of infection

Coverage begins on day one for health, dental, and vision insurance and includes health expense accounts with generous employer contributions if the employee participates in a qualifying health plan. Employer‑paid life insurance, long‑term disability insurance, and various additional voluntary insurance plans are available. Paid time off, including vacation and sick, begins accruing upon hire, plus ten paid holidays. One paid discretionary day is available after six months of employment, and paid time off for…