About The Role

The University of South Florida has several openings for a Postdoctoral Fellow in the laboratory of Dr. Rahul Shinde. The Shinde Lab investigates how the gut microbiome shapes immune and metabolic responses during cancer progression, with a particular focus on the mechanistic links between microbial signals, macrophage function, and disease development. The lab uses a combination of in vitro methodologies, genomics/proteomics approaches, mouse models of tumorigenesis, and patient-derived materials to identify and target pathways linking the microbiome, metabolism, and immune responses in cancer.

Conduct independent research projects, focusing on the gut microbiome's role in cancer progression and its impact on immune responses.
Design and execute experiments using a range of methodologies, including in vitro techniques, genomics, proteomics, and mouse models.
Analyze and interpret complex data, contributing to the lab's understanding of microbial-immune interactions and their implications in cancer.
Collaborate with a dynamic team of researchers, including lab members and external collaborators, to advance the lab's research objectives.
Present research findings at lab meetings, conferences, and scientific forums, effectively communicating complex ideas to diverse audiences.
Publish research outcomes in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals, ensuring the lab's contributions are recognized and accessible to the scientific community.
Provide mentorship and guidance to junior lab members and students, fostering a supportive and collaborative research environment.
Maintain meticulous laboratory records, ensuring compliance with institutional guidelines and best practices in research.
Stay abreast of the latest advancements in gut microbiome research and cancer immunology, continuously expanding your knowledge and expertise.
Engage in continuous professional development, attending workshops, conferences, and training programs to enhance your skills and stay at the forefront of the field.
Candidates should hold a Ph.D. (or equivalent) or be close to completing their doctoral degree in biomedical sciences or a related field.
The ideal candidate will have experience in immunology, cancer biology, macrophage function, mouse modeling, and the gut microbiome — including bacterial culture and CRISPR-based editing. Preference will be given to candidates with this background.
Hands-on experience with flow cytometry, macrophage/lymphocyte culture, adoptive T cell transfer, molecular biology (RNA/protein analysis, cloning, transfection), microscopy, and mouse surgery is highly desirable. Familiarity with bioinformatics tools and analysis is a plus.
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with strong interpersonal skills, excellent organization and time management, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively with professional integrity.