Postdoctoral Associate - Ding Lab

• A Ph.D. (earned within the past 0–2 years) in microbiology, metabolic engineering, chemical engineering, synthetic biology, or a closely related field.
• Strong record of research productivity and self-motivation.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.

The Ding Lab at the University of Florida’s College of Pharmacy is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate with expertise and interest in engineering microbiota strains for basic and translational research. The position is currently supported by a multi-institutional NIH collaborative grant, with strong potential for extension based on performance and funding.

Key Responsibilities:

The Postdoctoral Associate will lead innovative projects to engineer microbiome isolates (from both animal and human sources) as well as probiotic strains, using synthetic biology approaches to detect, report, and treat colorectal cancer (CRC) and other diseases. Engineered strains will be evaluated in cell-based, organoid, and animal disease models.

Additional responsibilities include:

• Mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in relevant techniques and project development.
• Presenting and discussing research progress in internal lab meetings and collaborative team meetings.
• Contributing to grant writing and manuscript preparation.
• Assisting with routine laboratory operations and maintaining a safe, organized research environment.

Commensurate with Education and Experience 

• Health Insurance: UF participates in state- and university-sponsored benefits programs for individuals, families and domestic partners, and offers voluntary insurance that includes vision, dental, long-term disability and more.
• Retirement Options: You may be eligible to participate in the FICA Alternative Plan and other deferred retirement plans.
• Leave: Full-time post-doctoral associates earn paid leave bi-weekly.

• A Ph.D. (earned within the past 0–2 years) in microbiology, metabolic engineering, chemical engineering, synthetic biology, or a closely related field.
• Strong record of research productivity and self-motivation.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.

• Demonstrated experience in bacterial or yeast strain engineering and synthetic biology applications.
• Background in microbiome research, cancer biology, or microbial metabolism.
• Proven ability to stay current with emerging technologies and to multi-task effectively.

To be considered, you must upload your cover letter, resume, and list of three professional references.

 As a part of our review for research and research support positions, we look for a full CV which includes all professional appointments/engagements, all post-secondary education, and all publications from post-secondary education and all respective dates. Please be sure to not use acronyms in your CV. This CV should include names of entities associated with any projects.

To apply, please email Dr. Yousong Ding at yding@cop.ufl.edu with the following materials:

1. A cover letter describing your research experience, interests, and fit for this position.
2. A current CV.
3. Contact information for three professional references.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Compensation will be commensurate with experience.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

This is a time-limited position.