Post-Doctoral Fellow - Department of Microbiology and Immunology

Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA — USA

Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA USA Posted Nov 06, 2025 Due Nov 05, 2026

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Institution: Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) – School of Medicine
Department: Microbiology and Immunology
Location: Richmond, VA
Type: Full-Time, Onsite
Salary: Starting at $62,232 per year
Hours per Week: 40
FLSA Status: Exempt
ORP Eligible: Yes
Posting Date: November 5, 2025

VCU is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join a multidisciplinary team investigating the gut-liver-brain axis in liver diseases, including MASLD/MASH, alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), and cholestatic liver disease
, and their impact on neurobehavioral function
. The role involves contributing to NIH-funded projects to elucidate how gut microbiome-derived metabolites, bile acids, and sphingolipids influence hepatic and neural signaling pathways.

Develop and utilize animal models of liver diseases to study gut-liver-brain interactions.

Conduct behavioral and cognitive tests (e.g., open field, Y-maze, novel object recognition).

Perform liver function assays and biochemical profiling (LC-MS/MS).

Conduct histological and immunohistochemical analyses of liver and brain tissues.

Apply molecular and cellular assays (qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence).

Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and present findings in publications and meetings
.

Mentor students and contribute to grant and manuscript preparation
.

Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology
, or a closely related field.

Expertise in animal models of liver diseases and brain dysfunction.

Strong background in hepatic primary cell isolation, molecular biology, and biochemical assays
.

Hands‑on experience with liver and brain histology
, imaging, and quantitative analysis.

Excellent communication, writing, and interpersonal skills; ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary environments.

Experience in biomarker discovery and translational research
.

Familiarity with bioinformatic analysis of RNA‑seq, metabolomics, or lipidomic datasets.

Hands‑on experience with analytical platforms (LC-MS, HPLC, or other quantitative assays).

Knowledge of gut microbiome analysis or neuroinflammation pathways
.

Employment Duration: Restricted position; continued employment depends on project need, funding availability, and performance.

Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite

VCU is committed to hiring veterans and values diversity, equity, and inclusion
.

Benefits: Comprehensive package for eligible employees including medical, dental, retirement, leave programs, and educational benefits.