Post-Doctoral Associate - Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology

About the Job

About Our Lab The Verkerke lab is a dynamic and collaborative research group dedicated to understanding the fundamental molecular mechanisms of metabolism. Our work focuses on how nutrient sensing pathways contribute to metabolic disease. We use a combination of cutting‑edge techniques in cell biology, molecular biology, and mouse genetics to tackle major questions in metabolic health and disease. We are committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and rigorous scientific environment where every member has the opportunity to grow intellectually and professionally.

Position Summary We are seeking a highly motivated and creative scientist to join our team as a Postdoctoral Fellow. The ideal candidate will have a recently awarded PhD in a relevant field and a strong track record of productive research. This position offers an exciting opportunity to lead an independent research project within the lab's broader focus areas of metabolism and mitochondrial bioenergetics.

The fellow will be responsible for designing and executing experiments, analyzing and interpreting data, and communicating their findings through publications and presentations. They will also play an active role contributing intellectually to the lab's environment, including mentoring junior scientists.

• Lead Independent Research (80%): Design, plan, and conduct independent research projects with guidance from the Principal Investigator. Develop and optimize new experimental techniques and approaches. Drive a project from the conceptual stage to publication. Identify funding opportunities and apply for grant funding.
• Data Analysis & Scientific Communication (15%): Maintain a detailed and accurate electronic lab notebook. Perform rigorous analysis and interpretation of complex datasets. Prepare manuscripts for publication in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals. Present research findings at internal lab meetings, institutional seminars, and national/international conferences.
• Mentorship & Collaboration (5%): Supervise and mentor junior lab members, including graduate and undergraduate students. Foster a collaborative spirit within the lab and engage with other research groups.

• A stimulating and collaborative research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities.
• Dedicated mentorship focused on achieving your career goals, whether in academia, industry, or other science-related fields.
• Support for professional development, including grant writing, networking, and conference travel.
• A competitive salary and benefits package in accordance with institutional and NIH guidelines.

• A PhD, MD, or MD/PhD in Physiology, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• A strong publication record, including at least one first-author publication in a reputable peer-reviewed journal.
• Extensive hands‑on experience in molecular and cellular biology.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically, troubleshoot effectively, and work independently.
• Excellent communication, writing, and interpersonal skills.

• Expertise in metabolic research.
• Experience with in vivo mouse models.
• Proficiency in bioinformatics, proteomics, metabolomics, or other large‑scale data analysis.
• A track record of presenting at scientific conferences.

The Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology's research centers on integrative systems biology of the heart and vasculature, including the close linkages among cardiovascular diseases and obesity, diabetes and metabolism at the whole animal level. The department is ideally positioned to bridge basic science discoveries to clinically relevant applications, spanning from academia to our neighbors in the biomedical industry.

Pay Range: $62,232 - $65,640; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

This position requires that you attach the following documents:

1. A Cover Letter detailing your previous research accomplishments, your specific interest in our lab's work, and your future career…