Summary

Research projects in the Dzakovich Lab at the CNRC are focused on defining genetic and environmental factors that affect the chemical composition of fruits and vegetables, the nutritional bioavailability of these molecules, and how these changes benefit human health. Intrinsic labeling is a powerful tool that can be used to track the bioavailability, metabolism, and excretion of nutrients and other plant-made molecules. We are seeking a postdoctoral associate to design, construct, and optimize automated intrinsic labeling systems (13CO2, 2H, 57Fe, etc.) for crops that will be used in forthcoming human clinical studies. The postdoctoral associate will also learn how to develop high-throughput phytochemical extraction and mass-spectrometry methods for labeled and non-labeled crops. Other training experiences include statistically analyzing data and preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications.

Postdoc trainees are encouraged to engage in opportunities to advance their professional skills and scientific expertise, present and publish their findings, and develop their own independent line of research. The ideal candidate works effectively on a diverse, multidisciplinary team and has a zest for organization and accomplishing goals. Postdoctoral associates participate in the established CNRC Postdoctoral Training Program which involves forming a mentoring committee, monthly journal club, semi-annual research presentations, and weekly seminar series.

For more information about Dr. Dzakovich’s research please visit: https://www.bcm.edu/research/faculty-labs/michael-dzakovich-lab

Job Duties

• Constructs and validates intrinsic labeling systems for a variety of food crops.
• Integrates data from advanced control systems and sensors (mass flow controllers, infrared gas analyzers, etc.) with software to optimize plant growth and development.
• Plans, directs, and executes advanced analytical chemistry studies involving plant-based foods and crops.
• Grows and maintains crops in greenhouse and/or growth chambers settings.
• Establishes new research protocols and procedures.
• Summarizes research findings and publishes results in peer-reviewed journals.
• Maintains laboratory operations.
• Supervises research staff and student lab members.
• Participates in the Children’s Nutrition Research Center’s Postdoctoral Training Program (https://www.bcm.edu/research/research-centers/usda-ars-childrens-nutrition-research-center/education/postdoctoral-fellowship-in-childrens-nutrition).
• Attends academic seminars and professional development activities.

Minimum Qualifications

• MD or Ph.D. in Basic Science, Health Science, or a related field.
• No experience required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with hydroponics and working in growth chamber and/or greenhouse settings.
• Experience programming/coding, working with sensors, electronics, and system automation.
• Comfortable using tools to build, maintain, or repair equipment.
• Familiarity with extracting and analyzing plant-derived chemicals with mass spectrometry.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively work in a team.
• Clear record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience with experimental design and statistical data analysis.