Post Doctoral Associate

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The 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. or MD or terminal degree required

• No prior experience required

Department Specific Functions

The Postdoctoral Associate supports ongoing laboratory-based and translational research efforts aimed at understanding the mechanisms underlying diabetes and its complications. Responsibilities include performing biomarker analyses, managing experimental workflows, and contributing to mechanistic studies that connect molecular findings to the pathophysiology of diabetes. The role also involves the development and optimization of both in vitro and in vivo models to investigate diabetes-related disease mechanisms and to evaluate potential therapeutic targets.

Working under the supervision of senior research staff, the Postdoctoral Associate ensures high-quality data generation and timely progression of research projects. The role also involves analyzing experimental data, preparing manuscripts for publication, and contributing to presentations that promote the institution’s research excellence in diabetes. Through these efforts, the Postdoctoral Associate plays a critical part in translating laboratory discoveries into actionable insights for diabetes prevention, diagnosis, and therapy.

Design, execute, and analyze experiments related to the molecular and physiological mechanisms of diabetes using in vitro and in vivo models, including pancreatic islets. Develop and optimize cellular and animal models relevant to insulin resistance, beta-cell dysfunction, and related metabolic processes. Perform biomarker analyses and mechanistic studies using molecular, biochemical, and imaging techniques. Maintain accurate experimental records and ensure data integrity across all research activities. Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and technical staff on project planning, data interpretation, and methodological refinement. Prepare manuscripts, reports, and presentations to communicate research findings internally and externally. Ensure research activities comply with institutional, local, and federal regulations, including IRB, IACUC, and biosafety protocols.  Prepare and maintain accurate documentation for regulatory submissions, amendments, and renewals related to animal and human subject research. Monitor ongoing studies for adherence to approved protocols and ethical standards and report deviations in accordance with regulatory requirements. Contribute to internal audits, inspections, and corrective action planning to uphold research integrity and regulatory compliance. Contribute to the development of grant applications and progress reports. Mentor students or junior researchers and promote a collaborative, ethical research environment. Stay current with relevant scientific literature and integrate new techniques as appropriate. 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.

An ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in laboratory-based and translational research related to diabetes or metabolic disease. This includes establishing and optimizing in vitro and in vivo models, conducting biomarker and mechanistic studies, and applying molecular and cellular techniques such as qPCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence. Familiarity with rodent models of diabetes, data analysis, and interpretation of complex biological datasets is essential. The candidate should demonstrate the ability to work independently, contribute to multidisciplinary teams, and communicate findings through publications and presentations.

Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes:

• Strong knowledge of diabetes pathophysiology, metabolic regulation, and translational research approaches.

• Proficiency in molecular and cellular biology techniques, including gene and protein expression analysis, imaging, and cell-based assays.

• Experience with in vivo metabolic studies using rodent models, including handling, dosing, tissue collection, and phenotyping.

• Ability to design, conduct, and troubleshoot experiments independently, with strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

• Competence in data analysis and visualization using software such as GraphPad Prism, R, or Python.

• Excellent scientific writing and communication skills, with a track record of peer-reviewed publications or presentations.

• Strong organizational and time management abilities with attention to detail and commitment to high-quality research.

• Collaborative and proactive mindset with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

• Support the department’s research mission by investigating pancreatic islet biology and metabolic dysfunction in diabetes. Develop and apply in vitro and in vivo models relevant to islet function, insulin secretion, and glucose regulation. Contribute to translational goals through biomarker discovery and therapeutic target validation. Collaborate with departmental investigators, utilize core resources, and participate in seminars, training, and cross-lab initiatives. Ensure compliance with protocols for animal and human tissue research.

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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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The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities are encouraged to apply. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law. Click here for additional information.

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