Postdoctoral Associate - Food Science, Cornell University, USA

Published Date: 2023-12-19.

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: We believe that achieving next-generation scientific breakthroughs requires an understanding of the world’s complex, interlocking systems. We believe that access to nutritious food and a healthy environment is a fundamental human right. We believe that ensuring a prosperous global future depends on the ability to support local people and communities everywhere. By working in and across multiple scientific areas, CALS can address challenges and opportunities of the greatest relevance, here in New York, across the nation, and around the world.

Position Function

The Tako Lab conducts multidisciplinary research that links between the research fields of Food Science and Nutrition. Overall research focuses on various aspects of (a) dietary trace mineral deficiencies, cause and effects, with emphases on the physiological and nutritional factors and practices that influence the intestinal absorption of micronutrients, specifically iron and zinc. (b) the characterization of the individual and interactive effects of dietary minerals (Fe/Zn), phytochemicals and prebiotics common to staple foods on the intestinal microbiome and BBM functionality. Evaluation of plant origin bioactive compounds extracted from food crops on mineral (Fe, Zn) dietary bioavailability and absorption in vivo. In this context, we use approaches that utilize both cellular and unique animal (Gallus gallus, both hatchling and embryonic) models to assess mineral bioavailability of staple food crops, and plant origin bioactive compounds. In general, my research is focused at: 1. Alleviating dietary mineral deficiencies in at-risk populations; 2. The development of a novel zinc status physiological blood biomarker (the LA:DGLA ratio); 3. The study of the effects of mineral deficiencies (Zn and Fe) on the intestinal brush border membrane functionality using the Gallus gallus model; 4. The interplay between nutrient intake and gene expression (nutrigenomics) relevant to Fe and Zn deficiency; 5. The interactions between host Fe and Zn status and the gut microbiome; and 6. The characterization of the individual and interactive effects of dietary minerals (Fe/Zn), phytochemicals and prebiotics common to staple foods (chickpea, bean, wheat, lentil) on the intestinal microbiome and BBM functionality. Evaluation of plant origin bioactive compounds extracted from food crops on mineral (Fe, Zn) dietary bioavailability and absorption in vivo.

The Postdoctoral Associate will support and supervise the research activity by organizing the lab, purchasing, keeping necessary laboratory records, conforming to safety regulations, and performing laboratory techniques under the direction of the principal investigator. Daily activities include but are not limited to record keeping and care of the Gallus gallus model (CU poultry farm), intra amniotic (embryonic) administration, tissue and samples collection, surgical procedures, samples screening and analyses, DNA/RNA extraction (tissue and microbial), PCR, RT-PCR, gel electrophoresis, Western Blot, HPLC and histological procedures such as IHC. The individual will also be responsible for general lab support, maintenance, and training of students with basic technical tasks as needed.

Having excellent organizational, communication, and multi-tasking skills, as well as strong ability to attend to details and manual dexterity are essential and required. Working hours can be negotiated based on the individual needs/requests and experimental plans of the lab. Must be flexible and have ability to work occasional weekends.

This is a full time, one-year, Postdoctoral Associate position to support research activities under the direction of the principal investigator, with possible extension dependent on funding and performance.

The job function of this opening is summarized below:

Responsibilities:

Discovery and investigation of new bioactive materials
Conduct experiments in the lab and in connected facilities
Investigate the new application of bioactive materials in vivo
Simulation and computational studies of materials for application and structural analysis
Maintain a laboratory notebook and other technical documentation according to lab guidelines
Communicate results to the scientific community via published papers
Collaborate with other team members for the solution of problems of common interest
Compile the results and present them in group meetings and other forums of interest
Writing research papers and grant proposals to absorb funding for the lab

Anticipated Division of Time:

Conducting experiments: 65%
Manuscripts writing/ grants writing/ Research supervision and support/Record Keeping/Reporting: 22.5%
Lab management, safety, prof development: 12.5%

Requirements:

Academic training:

Hold PhD degree in food science & technology, biological sciences, molecular biology, physiology, or related field
Have two or more years of hands-on experience in a molecular biology laboratory, specifically with experience in care of chicken model (Gallus gallus), intra amniotic administration (embryo), screening, DNA/RNA/microbial extraction, RT-PCR, PCR, gel electrophoresis, Western Blot, microbiology, microscopy (light/electron), NGS, HPLC and histological procedures
Prior experience (at least 2 years) working with Gallus gallus animal model. Including dietary formulation, conduct of long-term feeding trial
Experience with extensive molecular and NGS techniques
Individuals with interest in nutrition, Bio active compounds, animal models, nutrigenomics, and/or molecular biology research;
Strong documentation and written and oral communication skills; And ability to work independently, self-motivated, and as part of a team.

Supervision Exercised:

Supervision of undergraduate and graduate students

To apply:

Please apply via Academic Jobs Online https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/26890

Qualified candidates should submit a short cover letter, curriculum vitae, contact information for three references, and a statement supporting diverse communities (this can be a stand-alone document (preferred) or the information can be embedded in other parts of the application materials) outlining how, through research, teaching, service, mentoring, extension, and/or outreach, the candidate has and will contribute to support Cornell’s historical mission of “any person … any study,” via the website.

Applications will be reviewed as received, continuing until a suitable applicant is identified.

CALS hiring wage for this title $56,484.

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Life. Changing.

Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League and Land-grant university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose and contribute creative ideas to further the university’s mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement.

Cornell’s regional and global presence includes state-wide Cornell Cooperative Extension programs and offices in all counties and boroughs, global partnerships with institutions and communities engaged in life-changing research and education, the medical college’s campuses on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and Doha, Qatar, and the Cornell Tech campus on Roosevelt Island in the heart of New York City.

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status

Pay Range:

$56,484.00 – $80,000.00

Pay Ranges:

The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

Prior relevant work or industry experience.
Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)
Unique applicable skills.

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Employment Assistance:

For general questions about the position or the application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting or email [email protected].

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EEO Statement:

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.

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