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Diabetes Research Institute has an exciting opportunity for a Post Doctoral Associate position. The incumbent performs scientific research and studies under the supervision of managing staff. Moreover, the Post Doctoral Associate promotes institutional recognition through literal contributions to the scientific community.

CORE JOB FUNCTIONS                                                                                              

• Conducts research on specific areas of study as assigned.

• Prepares research reports and technical papers for publishing.

• Investigates the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and theories.

• Maintains substantial knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories.

• Develops advanced analytical models and systems and provides solutions and analyses to support strategic and tactical decisions.

• Adheres to University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguards University assets.

This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities as necessary.

CORE QUALIFICATIONS                                                                                            

• Ph.D. required

• No prior experience required

Department Specific Functions

The Post Doctoral Associate will work on nanomaterial/nanoparticle preparation, functionalization and characterization (basic organic and analytical chemistry), drug delivery methods, molecular biology technics such as immunohistochemistry, confocal and wide-field fluorescence microscopy etc.. He/She will work closely with the supervisor, Dr. Velluto, and her collaborators, as part of a team, on the nanotechnology for drug delivery research program that she is developing. The aim of the program is to enhance pancreatic beta-cell replacement therapies via localized immune modulation for the cure of type 1 diabetes. The Post Doctoral Associate will also be responsible of performing animal work, general lab management, analyzing data, writing reports and papers for publications, participating and presenting to international meetings.

SPECIFIC AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

This position involves laboratory research on nanotechnology for drug delivery. A dedicated work-ethic, a collegial attitude, organized and timely completion of assigned tasks are expected. Acceptance of and compliance with all safety and fire regulations is required. The position also offers the opportunity for professional development, and the person hired will be encouraged to attend DRI research meetings and seminars as well as other UM seminars as adequate. Specific responsibility areas include as follows:

(i) Research

• Organic and analytical chemistry (basic): nanomaterial synthesis and nanoparticle self-assembly, size measurements, drug loading in the nanoparticles, HPLC analysis of drug loading and release.

• Cell culture: handling cell cultures (murine and human).

• In vitro cellular assays: proliferation assays, cytotoxicity assays, cytokine determinations

• Islet function: evaluate effects on the function of isolated pancreatic islets – glucose-stimulated insulin secretion.

• Flow cytometry: immune-phenotyping and flow analysis of cells

• Immunology and histology: antibody immunoassays, immunostaining techniques and confocal imaging

• In vivo work: organize and perform mouse and rat experiments intended to assess safety, distribution, and efficacy of various agents; monitor and follow-up diabetic rodents; minor procedures in mice and rats and organ dissections.

• General laboratory: supply ordering and tracking; maintenance of adequate supplies; determination of optimal source, ordering, and follow-through; routine cleaning and maintenance of laboratory equipment; maintenance of inventories of chemical reagents and cells; clear documentation of performed experiments and existing methods; familiarity with standard software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint; GraphPad), etc.

• documentation and summarization of the experimental results (including digital/photographic documentation and computerized data entering). 

• Attendance of research meetings/seminars is expected; participation in professional training workshops/sessions may be required.

(iv) Other duties: As required

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The University of Miami offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, tuition remission and more.

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