The Corbin Lab within the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture is actively seeking a passionate individual well-versed in gut microbiome research to join our dynamic team. We’re in search of a dedicated Scientist I to spearhead groundbreaking research initiatives exploring the intricate dynamics of the gut microbiome, particularly focusing on the digestion of compounds within the human digestive tract and their subsequent effects on gut microbial communities.

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Research Leadership: Lead innovative research projects employing in-vitro models, including the SHIME (Simulator of Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem), to study the behavior of compounds/food products in the gastrointestinal tract and its impact on the gut microbiome.
2. Specialized Expertise: Prior experience in testing the ability of plant-derived compounds, probiotics, synbiotics, or prebiotics to modulate the gut microbiome and/or conducting clinical trials in gut health is highly valued.
3. Bioethics and Project Management: Assist in the development of bioethics applications, oversee project management tasks, and contribute to publications and reports.
4. Lab Operations: Manage day-to-day laboratory operations including purchasing, reagent preparation, and ensuring adherence to safety standards.
5. Experimental Work: Conduct a range of laboratory tasks such as managing in vitro colon model systems, nucleic acid extractions, sequencing library preparation, microorganism isolation, and data analysis.
6. Training and Collaboration: Mentor students, staff, and visitors, collaborate with peers, and foster a positive team environment.

Desired Qualifications:

• Research Experience: Proven track record in investigating the diet-gut health nexus.
• Bioinformatics Proficiency: Familiarity with bioinformatics and -omics data integration is advantageous.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential.
• Reliability: Must exhibit reliability, respectfulness, and professionalism in all aspects of work. This research requires someone with a passion for studying gut health!

Equipment Oversight: The Scientist I will oversee the operation and maintenance of specialized equipment including biosafety cabinets, anaerobic chambers, gas monitoring systems, and the SHIME.
 

If you’re an ambitious researcher eager to delve into the fascinating world of gut microbiome research and contribute to cutting-edge projects, we encourage you to apply. Join us in unraveling the mysteries of the gut microbiome and its profound impact on human health!

This role does not entail supervisory responsibilities, allowing for focused contributions to research endeavors

The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment is an inclusive and welcoming workplace that offers a variety of employee enhancement initiatives, such as a formal mentoring program and a staff professional development fund. To find out more about CAFE and how the college supports the mission of this being the University of, for, and with Kentucky visit http://www.ca.uky.edu/ and to find out more about the Horticulture department please visit https://horticulture.ca.uky.edu/