What are the responsibilities and job description for the Postdoctoral Fellow - Christine McDonald Lab position at Cleveland Clinic?
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.).
Salary : $31,200 - $95,000