Title: Post Doctoral Res Assoc U M - Upi Lab
Executive Area: Academic Affairs
College/School/MBU: College of Natural Sciences
Department: Veterinary & Animal Sciences
Work Location: Amherst
Schedule: Full Time
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Job Summary
The Upi Lab in the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (VASCI) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to investigate immunometabolic regulation of tissue-resident immune cells in mucosal tissues. Research in the laboratory focuses on understanding how nutrient sensing, metabolism, and immune-epithelial interactions shape chronic inflammatory diseases, colorectal cancer, HIV-associated gut dysfunction, and reproductive mucosal health. The successful candidate will develop independent research projects while contributing to collaborative and translational studies utilizing human tissues, mouse models, organoids, single-cell genomics, and advanced imaging approaches.
Essential Functions
Research projects in the laboratory focus on, immunometabolic regulation of tissue-resident T cells, chronic inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal and reproductive tracts, early-onset colorectal cancer and HIV-associated mucosal dysfunction.
Nutrient sensing and immune adaptation at barrier tissues.
Design, conduct, and analyze experiments related to mucosal immunology and immunometabolism.
Develop independent research projects aligned with the laboratory's mission.
Perform studies using mouse models, organoids, human tissue samples, flow cytometry, microscopy, and molecular biology techniques.
Participate in collaborative projects across UMass and external institutions.
Prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact journals.
Present findings at national and international scientific meetings.
Contribute to grant applications and fellowship submissions.
Mentor graduate students, undergraduate researchers, and technicians.
Assist with establishing laboratory protocols and research infrastructure.
Contribute to a collaborative and inclusive laboratory environment.
Other Functions
Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness.
Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean’s strategic priorities.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.
Minimum Qualifications
PhD, MD, or equivalent doctoral degree in Immunology, Cell Biology, Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field.
Demonstrated publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
Experience in at least one of the following areas: immunology, metabolism, cancer biology, mucosal biology, stem cell biology, microbiology, or computational biology.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with flow cytometry, single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial biology, metabolomics, organoid culture, or animal models.
Experience analyzing transcriptomic or other high-dimensional datasets.
Interest in pursuing an academic, biotechnology, or translational research career.
Prior experience mentoring trainees.
Additional Details
This is a temporary, grant funded position.
At UMass Amherst and in CNS, we strive to be a community where every individual feels a sense of belonging, where every individual is included, and where every individual is valued. These values and goals are reflected in the College of Natural Sciences’ Inclusive Excellence framework and in the UMass Amherst’s For the Common Good: 2024–2034 Strategic Plan.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a laboratory or healthcare setting and may involve exposure to chemicals or infectious diseases. Requires standing for extended periods of time and/or use of protective gear.
Work Schedule and Work Arrangement
Monday – Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm and may have to be altered occasionally to accommodate timing of experiments and other factors.
Salary Information
Salary minimum is determined by collective bargaining agreement based on years of experience. Salary may exceed the floor and will be determined by the PI (final salary will be stated in offer letter).
Current salary floors based on 100% time, 40 hours/week:
0-2 years $62,838
3-4 years $66,287
5+ years $71,033
Special Instructions for Applicants
Along with the application, please submit a resume and a cover letter. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a continuous basis until the position is filled. Early submissions are encouraged.
This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.
