Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Orthodontics & Oral Facial Genetics Contract

Appointment Status: Non-Tenure Track

Department: IU Indianapolis Department of Orthodontics and Oral Facial Genetics – School of Dentistry

Location
Indianapolis

Position Summary
A postdoctoral research fellow position is available starting on March 1, 2025, or earlier in Dr. Rishma Shah’s lab at Indiana University School of Dentistry. Dr. Shah seeks to investigate different approaches to engineer craniofacial skeletal muscle for implantation into sites of soft tissue defect. This project will involve (1) purification and expansion of porcine muscle stem cells; (2) use of 3D-printed scaffolds, growth factors, and mechanical loading to promote muscle tissue regeneration; and, (3) in vivo testing of engineered muscle tissue. The candidate is expected to understand the context and implications of the proposed research necessary to conduct research in the scientific disciplines of biomaterials and tissue engineering.The candidate must independently plan, develop, conduct and evaluate scientific research in a laboratory. The range of duties includes, but is not limited to: project planning, experimental design, developing methodology, conducting procedures, modifying procedures as needed, data collection and analysis, laboratory communication and instruction. A candidate will be expected to demonstrate and model effective mental concentration, visual attention and manipulative skills. Work will include the training and supervision of staff, students and others in performing specific techniques or phases of experiments. It is expected that a candidate will independently direct at least two collaborative projects with others in and outside the Indiana University School of Dentistry to plan, design, implement, and modify experimental plans and procedures. A candidate is also expected to be highly motivated, organized, reliable and possesses excellent communication skills. Training in specific methods and techniques will be offered.

As the state’s premier urban research institution, Indiana University is committed to having a welcoming campus community that reflects and enacts the values of diversity, equity and inclusion that inform academic excellence. We seek candidates whose research, teaching, and community engagement efforts contribute to heterogenous, equitable, and inclusive learning and working environments for our students, staff, and faculty.

Basic Qualifications
Academic/degree requirements

• PhD in a biological science

Experience requirements

• Minimum of three years’ experience in a basic science laboratory with a working knowledge of:

1. primary murine, porcine, and human cell culture
2. animal models of disease
3. handling of infectious materials for cell culture, animal models and/or human disease

Department Contact for Questions
Dr. Rishma Shah
Associate Professor
Department of Orthodontics & Oral Facial Geneticsrsh1@iu.edu

Additional Qualifications
Salary will be commensurate with the candidate’s experience and qualifications. Review of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Salary and Rank
Salary will be commensurate with the candidate’s experience and qualifications.

Special Instructions
Review of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Interested candidates should review the application requirements and submit supporting documents at [URL to be provided by IU School of Dentistry Office of Faculty Affairs]. The supporting documents are:

• Curriculum vitae.
• Cover letter/ Letter of application.
• The contact details of three referees.
• Statement of research philosophy (Select the “Research Agenda” option to upload your research philosophy)

For Best Consideration Date: 12/13/2024

Expected Start Date: 02/01/2025

Posting/OAA #
IU-101115-2024