POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

Occupational Summary 

Conduct independent research activities under the guidance of a faculty mentor in preparation for a full time academic or research career. 

Work Performed 

DEFINITION: 

The Surana lab is looking for an energetic and motivated postdoctoral fellow who is interested in elucidating and better understanding causal host–microbiota–immune interactions. The Surana laboratory innovatively integrates gnotobiotic mouse models, microbiology, immunology, and bioinformatics to tackle medically relevant questions. We have recently developed a novel approach of microbe–phenotype triangulation that facilitates the identification of specific bacteria within the microbiota that are causally related to a phenotype of interest (Nature 2017). We interrogate these host–bacterial interactions from both the host (i.e., elucidating the immunological mechanism) and bacterial perspectives (i.e., identifying the necessary bacterial factors). Using our approach of microbe–phenotype triangulation, we identified a new bacterial species, Clostridium immunis, that modulates inflammatory and metabolic phenotypes via regulation of group 3 innate lymphoid cells. Moreover, we have genetically and biochemically characterized the bioactive molecule responsible for these functions. Additional projects focus on two commensal bacteria that protect against enteric infections via induction of host-derived antimicrobial peptides and other commensal bacteria that inhibit HIV pathogenesis. Potential projects include further mechanistic investigations of the above findings. There are also opportunities for translational projects that involve patient samples. 

The Surana lab is a part of the Departments of Pediatrics, Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, and Immunology at Duke University School of Medicine. The lab is also affiliated with numerous centers on campus that offer a rich multidisciplinary environment, with active collaborations between clinicians and basic scientists. There are ample opportunities for formal and informal mentorship, with an eye towards ensuring scientific independence and career development. Some recent work from the lab has been published in PNAS (2020), Journal of Immunology (2021), and Clinical Infectious Diseases (2022). 

EXPECTATION: 

• The conscientious discharge of research or scholarship responsibilities, which may include teaching responsibilities for Postdoctoral Associates 
• Conformance to standards of responsible conduct in research 
• Compliance with good scholarly and research practice 
• Maintenance of a laboratory notebook and/or other comparable records of research activity, which remains the property of Duke University upon termination 
• Adherence to University standards regarding use of isotopes, chemicals, infectious agents, animals, human subjects, and the like 
• Open and timely discussion with the mentor regarding all facets of the Postdoctoral Appointee's research activities. Postdoctoral Appointees are encouraged to consult the AAMC Compact Between Postdoctoral Appointees and Their Mentors for suggested guidelines for the Postdoctoral Appointee-mentor relationship 
• Prompt disclosure to the mentor regarding the possession and desire to distribute materials, reagents, software, copyrightable and potentially patentable discoveries derived from the Postdoctoral Appointee's research. 
• Collegial conduct towards members of the research group and others as described in the Duke University School of Medicine Honor Code of Professional Conduct and other relevant conduct policies pertaining to other schools at Duke University. 
• Compliance with all applicable University and departmental policies and procedures. 

Required Qualifications at this Level 

• M.D. and/or Ph.D. (or equivalent) in biomedical sciences with a strong publication record 
•  Keen interest in host–microbiota interactions 
• Robust background in microbiology and/or immunology 
•  Experience with bioinformatics (e.g., 16S rRNA sequencing, metagenomics, RNAseq) is preferred but not required 
•  Strong communication (oral and written English) and organizational skills 
•  Capable of driving projects forward while also being supportive of other team members 
•  Willingness to work with mice, with prior experience being beneficial 

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative and level of the types of duties and responsibilities that will be required of positions given this title and shall not be construed as a declaration of the total of the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description. 

Duke University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. 

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values. 

Essential Physical Job Functions 

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.

Duke is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essentialjob functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.