Research Associate - Post Doc; DeNisco Lab

Posting Details

• Posting Number: S06876P
• Position Title:
  
  Research Associate - Post Doc (DeNisco Lab)
• Functional
  
  Title:
  
  Research Associate - Post Doc (MORCOS LAB)
• Department:
  Biological Sciences
• Salary Range: $62,232 - Dependent on Qualifications
• Pay Basis:
  Monthly
• Position Status:
  Regular full-time
• Location:
  
  Richardson
• Desired
  
  Start Date:
  
  04/01/2026
• Posting Open Date: 02/18/2026
• Posting Close Date: 02/27/2026

The De Nisco laboratory is focused on understanding mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis, host response, and urinary microbiome structure and function contributing to recurrent urinary tract infection (rUTI) in postmenopausal women. A current major research focus of the De Nisco lab is the role of the urogenital microbiome in UTI susceptibility. We seek to define the structure and function of the female urogenital microbiome in health and disease and to determine how it is shaped by aging, hormonal status, and history of infection using metagenomics, advanced statistical models, and analytical biochemistry.

One position to work on an NIH‑funded project is available. The project is focused on determining the impact of different types of menopausal estrogen hormone therapy on urogenital microbiome composition and function.

The successful postdoctoral applicant should have a proven academic publication track record, including multiple first‑authored publications in well‑respected peer‑reviewed journals, as well as excellent scientific, organizational, record‑keeping, and problem‑solving skills. Candidates will be involved in human cohort curation and will conduct independent research by characterizing microbiome composition across multiple anatomical sites using shotgun metagenomics, microbiological, and bioinformatic approaches. Candidates with expertise in host‑microbe interactions related to the urogenital tract, microbiome analytical methods, urinary tract infection models, bioinformatics, and analytical biochemistry will be prioritized.

The selected candidate will also be encouraged to explore new research areas and seek independent funding as part of their own career development.

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter summarizing current research and future career goals
• Names and contact information of 2–3 references

• Ph.D. in a related field.
• Proven academic publication track record with multiple first‑authored papers in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Strong scientific, organizational, record‑keeping, problem‑solving skills.
• Experience in human cohort curation and shotgun metagenomics, microbiological, and bioinformatic approaches.
• Expertise in host‑microbe interactions related to the urogenital tract, microbiome analytical methods, urinary tract infection models, bioinformatics, and analytical biochemistry.
• Ability to maintain the security or integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, if required.

• Competitive Salary
• Tuition Benefits
• BCBS PPO Medical Insurance Options – including 100% paid employee medical coverage for full‑time employees
• AD&D Insurance
• Dental & Vision Plan Options
• Long‑term and short‑term disability
• TRS Retirement Plan
• Fertility Benefits
• Paid time off

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