Postdoctoral Scholar at University of Kentucky – Lexington, Kentucky

PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field

Demonstrated experience working with RNA, (extraction, handling, and analysis). Experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g., qPCR, sequencing-based approaches). Experience working with complex or mixed microbial cultures. Ability to analyze and interpret complex biological datasets. Willingness to provide training/mentorship to undergraduate students. Evidence of independent research productivity (e.g., publications, preprints). Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

N/A

Long hours completing repetitive tasks, occasional heavy lifting.

Monday-Friday 8am – 5pm; May require working evening and/or weekend hours.

The Corbin Lab within the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment in the Department of Horticulture is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join an interdisciplinary research project focused on understanding the role of extracellular RNA (exRNA) in shaping microbial community dynamics.

The successful candidate will primarily focus on characterizing and manipulating exRNA-mediated communication within defined microbial consortia. This includes developing and applying molecular, microbiological, and multi-omics approaches to investigate how exRNA influences community structure, gene expression, and functional outcomes under physiologically relevant conditions. Additionally, the candidate will develop synthetic microbial communities (SynComs) that model complex environments (e.g. the human gut), for host–microbe interaction studies.

Please include a cover letter, curriculum vita and writing sample as part of your application.

For additional information about the Horticulture department please click here. To find out more about Martin-Gatton CAFE and how the college supports the mission of this being the University of, for, and with Kentucky, Click Here.

Demonstrated experience working with RNA, (extraction, handling, and analysis). Experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g., qPCR, sequencing-based approaches). Experience working with complex or mixed microbial cultures. Ability to analyze and interpret complex biological datasets. Willingness to provide training/mentorship to undergraduate students. Evidence of independent research productivity (e.g., publications, preprints). Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Proficiency in bioinformatics and data analysis tools (e.g., R, Python, or similar platforms). Knowledge of microbial ecology, host–microbe interactions, or systems biology. Experience using in vitro gut/colon model systems

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.