Postdoctoral Scholar, Department of Surgery

Position Description:

The post-doctoral fellow in pancreatic islet cell transplantation is an advanced-training position for the physician-scientist or scientist wishing to broaden and deepen their knowledge in the field of pancreatic islet cell transplantation. The curriculum will expose the fellow to all aspects of human, animal (rodent, large animal) pancreatic islet cell transplantation techniques clinically as well as in the laboratory, including (but not limited to) the surgical techniques of pancreas procurement, enzymatic digestion, mechanical separation, purification, and packaging for product release. Extensive training is also offered in all aspects of product-release testing as defined by the Food and Drug Administration, as well as general aspects of regulatory compliance as required of a cGMP facility. Candidates with strong background in cell and molecular biology and/or immunology are encouraged to apply. Responsibilities include conceptualizing and executing experiments, data analysis, laboratory record keeping, oral and written presentation of experimental results. The position may involve oversight/ supervision of technicians or graduate students. Studies will focus on beta cell regeneration and replacement therapy, investigating the mechanism of islet graft rejection/dysfunction, improving survival of islet grafts post transplant and more. Candidates are expected to be proficient in basic laboratory skills such as tissue culture, ELISA, PCR, flow cytometry, western blotting and other molecular techniques. Extensive basic and applied/translational science opportunities exist for mentored research as well as presentations at national and international scientific meetings. Clinical research opportunities are also available for the interested physicians. Publications are expected, at a minimum of two per year.

The fellowship is two years, with an opportunity for further study available.

Required Qualifications:

MD-Ph.D., Ph.D. or equivalent degrees. If sponsorship is required, must meet eligibility requirements for a visa in accordance with the US Department of Homeland Security.

Preferred Qualifications:

MD-Ph.D., Ph.D. in biomedical research with wet-lab training is preferred.