Postdoctoral Scholar Research

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.