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Expected Starting Salary Range: - NIH extramural scale based on years of experience.

The Nakamura lab is recruiting a Post-doctoral Research Fellow who is experienced in molecular biology, RNA biology, and /or immunology to support an NIH R01-funded position. The lab researches the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the regulation of immunometabolism in the pathogenesis of obesity-associated metabolic and inflammatory diseases. We have been developing R01- projects investigating tissue-specific EVs and their RNA cargos in metabolic and inflammatory diseases, including but not limited to type-2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, based on our recent findings (Cell 2010, Nature 2012, Diabetes 2014, PNAS 2015, Cell Reports 2015, Cell Reports 2018, Nature Comm 2018, Endocrinology 2021). The successful candidate will engage in immunological studies with our newly established mouse and cell culture models, EV’s RNA cargo network analyses, and human clinical samples to comprehensively understand the roles of EVs in metabolic and inflammatory diseases.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

•    Design, execute, and record laboratory experiments, and analyze the data.

•    Research and improve current methods and evaluate innovative techniques. Implement this knowledge in the Division/Department.

•    Present research at laboratory meetings, journal clubs, seminars, and meetings.

•    Draft, write, and edit scientific reports, papers, journal articles, abstracts, and grants.

•    Maintain currency in field through continuing education, literature, and seminars.  

•    Attend required Cincinnati Children’s training sessions and ensure regulatory compliance with all policies and procedures.

•    Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Required:

•    Ph.D. in related discipline, MD, or equivalent required.

Preferred:

We are seeking an applicant with a recent PhD/MD or equivalent, who has peer-review publications, a high capacity for independent thinking, collaborative work, and problem-solving, and shows motivation and implication for the area of research. Candidates with strong experience in RNA biology and/or immunology with mouse study, cell culture techniques, molecular biology, biochemistry, metabolism, and/or microscopy are encouraged to apply. Candidates who are planning to apply for, or currently hold, their own fellowships will be given priority in the selection process.

Unique Skills:

Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.  Demonstrate attention to detail, strong organizational skills, supervisory ability, and an innovative approach to experimental design.  Computer literate and working knowledge of software applications (word processing, spreadsheet, and database). Analytical ability sufficient to compare data; mathematical ability sufficient to perform algebraic calculations and statistical analysis.  Ability to synthesize information and to create and deal with new situations by applying past experiences.  Expressed willingness to teach others and share results. Capable of meeting time demands necessary to execute experiments.

At Cincinnati Children’s, we come to work with one goal: to make children’s health better. We believe in a holistic team approach, both in caring for patients and their families, and in advancing science and discovery. We strive to do better and find energy and inspiration in our shared purpose. If you want to be the best you can be, you can do it at Cincinnati Children’s. 

 Cincinnati Children's is: 

• Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 10  best Children's Hospitals in the nation for more than 15 years 

• Consistently among the top 3 Children's Hospitals for National Institutes of Health (NIH) Funding 

• Recognized as one of America’s Best Large Employers  (2025), America’s Best Employers for New Grads (2025) 

• One of the nation's America’s Most Innovative Companies as noted by Fortune 

• Consistently certified as great place to work 

• A Leading Disability Employer as noted by the National Organization on Disability 

• Magnet® designated for the fourth consecutive time by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) 

 We Embrace Innovation—Together.  We believe in empowering our teams with the tools that help us work smarter and care better. That’s why we support the responsible use of artificial intelligence. By encouraging innovation, we’re creating space for new ideas, better outcomes, and a stronger future—for all of us.

Comprehensive job description provided upon request.

Cincinnati Children’s is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an environment of dignity and respect for all our employees, patients, and families. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, genetic information, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. EEO/Veteran/Disability