Post Doctoral Fellow - Emory University

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Description:

The Logan laboratory in the Department of Pediatrics at the Emory University School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Post-doctoral Research Fellow to join their team. The majority of the efforts will be dedicated to investigating the microbial characteristics and genetics of resistance in multidrug-resistant (MDR) gram-negative bacteria (primarily Enterobacterales) affecting children, healthy populations, animals, and the environment.

 

Research
Multi-drug resistant (MDR) Enterobacterales (Ent) infections have emerged as a serious public health threat and extra-intestinal and invasive community-acquired (CA) infections are increasingly being reported in young children and individuals without significant healthcare exposures. The major contributor is the rapid global spread of transmissible beta-lactamase (bla) and other AR genes (ARGs) carried on mobile genetic elements, which reduce or eliminate the effectiveness of multiple antibiotics. While it is known that several ARGs in clinically relevant bacteria evolved from the natural environment, a paucity of data exist on the extent to which environmental and animal reservoirs contribute to domestic acquisition of MDR Ent in healthy persons. The objectives of the proposed projects are to: 1) Profile MDR Ent and mobile ARGs in Chicago and Atlanta area waterways and identify environmental reservoirs associated with community acquisition of MDR Ent; 2) Assess risk factors for colonization with CA-MDR Ent and transmission dynamics of CA-MDR Ent among community members located in established regions with high risk of infection.

 

Responsibilities
The post-doctoral fellow will lead a NIH-funded field study assessing community reservoirs of MDR Ent and support several related laboratory and field-based studies. The position is ideal for a candidate with a solid background in microbiology, molecular genetics, bacteriology and
environmental and/or public health research and is interested in both bench projects within a translational research wet laboratory and field studies. The position will require travel to Chicago to lead field studies two to four times per year.

 

Qualifications
• Recent Ph.D. or M.D., Ph.D. (<2 years or current Ph.D. students finishing in 2024)
• Solid background in bacteriology, molecular genetics, environmental science
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Experience working in bacteriology wet lab strongly preferred
• Experience in molecular genetics strongly preferred
• Experience in field studies strongly preferred
• Experience in public health research preferred but not required

 

JOB DESCRIPTION: Helps design and conduct research within a specified field while receiving advanced training from a designated Principal Investigator to enhance professional skills and research independence needed for pursuit of a career. The specific area of research in which the trainee is mentored is determined by the department and laboratory of the Postdoc. Designs and evaluates experiments. Develops new ideas that promote current research. Prepares and publishes scientific manuscripts under the direction of the Principal Investigator. May be responsible for operation of specific equipment. May teach techniques to others, train, and supervise research staff. Positions are temporary appointments as a research trainee. The initial appointment is for one year, renewal expected if progress is satisfactory and funds are available. Appointments cannot exceed five years.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: A doctoral degree or equivalent (Ph.D., M.D., ScD., D.V.M., DDS etc) in an appropriate field. Excellent scientific writing ability and strong oral communication skills. The ability to work effectively and collegially with colleagues. Additional qualifications as specified by the Principal Investigator.

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