Postdoctoral Fellow – Christine McDonald Lab

12:00am-12:00am Cleveland, OH US June 12, 2026

Highly motivated individuals with a PhD or MD/PhD in relevant area are encouraged to apply. This training position, under the direct supervision of a Cleveland Clinic Principal Investigator will provide practical training and experience in a research setting. This position is appointed through Cleveland Clinic Research. The successful applicant will be able to demonstrate a commitment to research, a collaborative work ethic and strong communication skills, both written and verbal. This program is expected to be completed within 5 years. Compensation follows the NIH NRSA Postdoctoral Salary Scale based on total years of postdoctoral experience.

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

We are looking for a curious and enthusiastic postdoctoral fellow to lead a translational research project investigating the impact of microplastics on the onset and progression of inflammatory bowel disease. This research will involve the use of primary cell culture systems, human biospecimens, and murine disease models to uncover mechansims of environmental triggers of autoinflammatory disease. Ideal candidates will have a well developed attention to detail, collaborative mindset, strong communication skills, and a willingness to learn new technical approaches.

Principal Investigator: Christine McDonald, PhD

Cleveland Clinic Research Department: Inflammation & Immunity

Lab Research Topics:

  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Innate immunity
  • Microplastics
  • Environmental triggers of disease

For more information about the lab's research, please visit: https://www.lerner.ccf.org/inflammation-immunity/mcdonald/ or contact Dr. McDonald at mcdonac2@ccf.org 

Responsibilities:

  • Independent project design with the goal of data generation, analysis, interpretation and manuscript preparation
  • Lead a research project on microplastics & IBD
  • Develop & maintain strong collaborations.
  • Provide written & oral communication of research findings
  • Assist in mentoring & training of junior lab members

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

Additional Preferred Qualities:

  • Curiosity & enthusiasm for learning new things
  • Attention to detail
  • Primary cell culture experience
  • Strong molecular biology background
  • Experience with murine models of disease

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
  • Short statement of research experience & future goals

All application materials should be submitted directly via email to Christine McDonald at mcdonac2@ccf.org

Keywords: Postdoc, Research, LRI, Microplastics, Inflammatory bowel disease, Signal transduction, Environmental factors, NOD2, Organoids, Mouse models, Translational research

Pay Range

Minimum Annual Salary: $31,200.00

Maximum Annual Salary: $95,000.00

The pay range displayed on this job posting reflects the anticipated range for new hires. A successful candidate’s actual compensation will be determined after taking factors into consideration such as the candidate’s work history, experience, skill set and education. The pay range displayed does not include any applicable pay practices (e.g., shift differentials, overtime, etc.). The pay range does not include the value of Cleveland Clinic’s benefits package (e.g., healthcare, dental and vision benefits, retirement savings account contributions, etc.).

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