FDA Postdoctoral Fellowship in Comparative Toxicological Evaluation of Tobacco Smoke and ENDS Aerosols Using Human Lung Organoid Models

About the role

The National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR) at the FDA Office in Jefferson, Arkansas, offers a research opportunity focusing on the comparative toxicity of tobacco products, including combustible cigarettes and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS).

Responsibilities

• Engage in research utilizing advanced in vitro human lung organoid models cultured at the air–liquid interface (ALI) to investigate the biological effects of tobacco smoke and aerosol exposures.
• Contribute to controlled exposure studies involving repeated exposure schedules throughout the week, followed by systematic analysis of biological endpoints.
• Collaborate with researchers to investigate functional and toxicological responses to exposures, including epithelial integrity, cellular viability, and physiological function.
• Apply techniques such as immunohistochemistry, comet assays for DNA damage assessment, and preparation of samples for sequencing-based mutation analysis.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret findings, and contribute to the broader understanding of how different tobacco products impact lung biology.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing or have received a master's or doctoral degree in Life Health and Medical Sciences.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or have lived in the United States for at least 36 out of the past 60 months.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree or Doctoral Degree in relevant field.

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with cell culture and toxicological assays.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Benefits

• Monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience.
• Structured training in inhalation toxicology, in vitro lung organoid models, and automated robot operations.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary training across toxicology, cell biology, and public health.
• Training in scientific documentation, data integrity, and laboratory safety.

Pay

• Monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience.

Schedule

• Full-time appointment.

Contact Information

Mentor: Azra Nfn (Nfn.Azra@fda.hhs.gov)

Contact: Ashley