Postdoctoral Fellow – Hyun Jung Kim Lab

NIH NRSA Postdoctoral Salary Scale

Years of Experience: Stipend for FY 2026

0: $63,480
1: $63,900
2: $64,380
3: $66,948
4: $69,180
5: $71,748
6: $74,424
7 or More: $77,076

POSITION 1: Microbiome-Associated Anti-Cancer Therapeutics in Organ-on-a-Chip Platforms
We seek postdoctoral researchers to investigate how gut microbes modulate immune checkpoints on colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Using patient-derived CRC organoid models, we have demonstrated that live gut bacteria reduce the expression of surface immune checkpoints through an enzymatic mechanism. Successful candidates will identify the responsible microbial enzymes and elucidate their mechanism of action. Strong candidates will have expertise in one or more of the following: microbial biochemistry and enzymology; glycobiology and carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes); proteomics-based target identification; protein engineering; or microbial synthetic biology. Experiences in engineering designer probiotics or liver biotherapeutics for targeted payload delivery or tumor-localized sensing are highly desirable. Candidates trained in host-microbiome biochemical interactions, glycoprotein processing, microbial physiology, or AI-assisted synthetic biology are especially encouraged to apply. 

POSITION 2: Microbiome-Associated Disease Modeling in Organ-on-a-Chip Platforms
We seek postdoctoral researchers to investigate how the gut microbiome drives human GI diseases using next-generation organoid and organ-on-a-chip platforms. Working at the interface of microbiology, disease biology, and bioengineering, successful candidates will join transdisciplinary collaborations with physician-scientists, immuno-oncologists, and pharmaceutical partners to elucidate microbiome-driven mechanisms underlying inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), intestinal fibrosis, CRC, celiac disease, and GI infectious diseases, advancing precision therapeutics and translational medicine. Ideal candidates will have expertise in one or more of the following: organoid and 3D cell culture; host-microbiome crosstalk and mucosal immunology; cellular and molecular phenotyping; mechanobiology and biophysical processes; or GI disease pathology. Candidates with hands-on experience in organ-on-a-chip, microphysiological systems (MPS), or new approach methodologies (NAM) are especially encouraged to apply. A strong foundation in traditional biochemistry or cell biology, combined with enthusiasm for emerging microphysiological platforms, is equally welcome. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to high-impact translational research at the convergence of microbiome science, disease modeling, and next-generation in vitro technologies. 

Principal Investigator: Hyun Jung Kim, PhD

Cleveland Clinic Research Department: Inflammation and Immunity

Lab Research Topics:

• Microbiome-Associated Anti-Cancer Therapeutics in Organ-on-a-Chip Platforms

• Microbiome-Associated Disease Modeling in Organ-on-a-Chip Platforms

• For more information about the lab's research, please contact kimh19@ccf.org

Education:

• PhD or MD/PhD required

• MD with relevant laboratory experience may substitute for PhD

Languages:

• English Proficiency proof required for candidates arriving on J-1, J-2, or F1 + OPT visa status

Work Experience:

• Previous experience in a research or academic setting.  Graduate student experience meets this requirement.

• Scientific writing experience

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to perform work in a stationary position for extended periods

• Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment

• Ability to communicate and exchange accurate information

• Ability to distinguish color

• Manual dexterity to handle specimens and repair equipment

• Ability to lift and transport equipment or specimens weighing up to 20 pounds

• May be exposed to hazardous chemicals, bio-hazards, radioactive materials, etc.

Personal Protective Equipment:

• PPE per institutional requirements; may vary by laboratory

Preferred Application Materials:

• CV

• Cover letter, please highlight the qualifications pertinent to the project outlined in the job description and a list of 3 references.

All application materials should be submitted directly via email to Hyun Jung Kim at kimh19@ccf.org 

Keywords: Cancer therapeutics, microbiome, host-microbe interaction, synthetic biology, designer probiotics, microbial biochemistry, protein engineering, enzymology, disease modeling, inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, colorectal cancer, microphysiological system (MPS), organoid, 3D culture, new approach methodologies (NAM).