Job Description

About the Wyss:
The mission of the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University is to transform human healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. Developed as an alliance between Harvard and other premier academic and clinical partner institutions, Institute faculty and staff collaborate in high-risk, fundamental research and science-driven technology development. A major focus of the Institute is to translate the technologies developed by its faculty and staff into commercial products and therapies through collaborations with clinical investigators and establishment of corporate alliances. For more information, discover our technologies, catch up on our recent news, or watch our latest videos.

Role Description:
The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University seeks outstanding postdoctoral applicants with expertise in cell biology or microbiology and microbiome research to join an interdisciplinary team of biologists and engineers to leverage in vitro organ-on-a-chip (Organ Chip) microfluidic culture systems to study and model the intestinal tract and microbiome and its influences on diseases, such as malnutrition-associated with environmental enteric dysfunction (EED), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and radiation-induced injury, as well as therapeutic responses.

What You’ll Need:
Ph.D. or M.D. and have a proven record of high-quality publications in cell biology, molecular biology, microbiology and/or microbiome research
Strong interest in contributing to multidisciplinary teams (engineers, biologists/physiologists, clinicians) is critical for this position
Expertise in in vitro culture of primary human cells, as well as knowledge of basic molecular and cell biology concepts and techniques
Significant skill in the culture, quantification and characterization of whole human microbiome and microbiology techniques is necessary

Preferred Qualifications:
Expertise in microbiology and/or intestinal cell biology, inflammation, microbiology, physiology, and pathophysiology, with an interest in applying this expertise in combination with modern cell and molecular biology practices
Expected to develop and lead an interdisciplinary research project aimed at exploring host responses to changes in microbiome using a microengineered Organ Chip models lined by human patient-derived cells and tissues that simulate diseases, such as EED, IBD, and radiation injury as well as developing responses to possible interventions and pursuing mechanisms of efficacy

Benefits and Perks:
Medical/Dental/Vision: We offer a variety of excellent medical, dental, & vision plans. All coverage begins as of your start date.
Time Off: 20 days of vacation per year
Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive tuition assistance program, classes at the Harvard Extension School and discounted options through participating Harvard grad schools.
Transportation: Harvard offers a 50% discounted MBTA pass as well as additional options to assist employees in their daily commute.
Wellness Options: Harvard offers programs and classes at little or no cost, including stress management, nutrition, meditation, and complimentary health services.
Where You Can Apply:
Applications, assembled as single PDF files, should contain a complete resume, cover letter describing research interests and goals, full list of publications, copies of up to three relevant scientific papers, as well as the names and contact information of three references (expected to provide letters of recommendation). Applications should be sent to faculty_postdocs@wyss.harvard.edu using the subject line “INTESTINAL CHIP APPLICATION.”

Working Conditions
Harvard University is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law. Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness through actions, interactions, and communications with others.