Postdoctoral Fellow - Christine McDonald Lab

Highly motivated individuals with a PhD or MD/PhD in a relevant area are encouraged to apply. This training position, under the direct supervision of a Cleveland Clinic Principal Investigator, will provide practical training and experience in a research setting. The successful applicant will demonstrate a commitment to research, a collaborative work ethic, and strong communication skills, both written and verbal. This program is expected to be completed within 5 years.

About the role

We are looking for a curious and enthusiastic postdoctoral fellow to lead a translational research project investigating the impact of microplastics on the onset and progression of inflammatory bowel disease. This research will involve the use of primary cell culture systems, human biospecimens, and murine disease models to uncover mechanisms of environmental triggers of autoinflammatory disease.

Principal Investigator: Christine McDonald, PhD
Research Department: Inflammation & Immunity Lab
Research Topics: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Innate immunity, Microplastics, Environmental triggers of disease

For more information about the lab's research, visit the lab's website or contact Dr. McDonald at mcdonac2@ccf.org.

Responsibilities

• Independent project design with the goal of data generation, analysis, interpretation, and manuscript preparation
• Lead a research project on microplastics and IBD
• Develop and maintain strong collaborations
• Provide written and oral communication of research findings
• Assist in mentoring and training of junior lab members

Requirements

• PhD or MD/PhD required (MD with relevant laboratory experience may substitute for PhD)
• Previous experience in a research or academic setting (graduate student experience meets this requirement)
• Scientific writing experience
• English proficiency proof required for candidates arriving on J-1, J-2, or F1 + OPT visa status

Preferred Qualifications

• Curiosity and enthusiasm for learning new things
• Attention to detail
• Primary cell culture experience
• Strong molecular biology background
• Experience with murine models of disease

Skills

• Collaborative mindset
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• Willingness to learn new technical approaches

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform work in a stationary position for extended periods
• Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment
• Ability to communicate and exchange accurate information
• Ability to distinguish color
• Manual dexterity to handle specimens and repair equipment
• Ability to lift and transport equipment or specimens weighing up to 20 pounds
• May be exposed to hazardous chemicals, bio-hazards, radioactive materials, etc.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) per institutional requirements; may vary by laboratory.

Pay

Compensation follows the NIH NRSA Postdoctoral Salary Scale based on total years of postdoctoral experience:

• 0 years: $63,480
• 1 year: $63,900
• 2 years: $64,380
• 3 years: $66,948
• 4 years: $69,180
• 5 years: $71,748
• 6 years: $74,424
• 7 or more years: $77,076

The pay range for new hires is $31,200.00 to $95,000.00 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s work history, experience, skill set, and education. This range does not include applicable pay practices (e.g., shift differentials, overtime) or the value of Cleveland Clinic’s benefits package (e.g., healthcare, dental, vision, retirement savings contributions).