Job Description

The Research Instructor will lead and contribute to an independent research program focused on the molecular and immunologic mechanisms underlying Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) and related gastrointestinal diseases. This position combines independent scientific investigation, grant development, laboratory leadership, trainee mentorship, and scholarly engagement within the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition.

The Research Instructor will be provided laboratory space and access to research equipment to support development of an independent research program and is expected to pursue and maintain extramural funding as Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing projects while establishing a sustainable research portfolio that advances the Division's scientific mission.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Research Program Leadership

• Develop and implement an independent research program focused on gastrointestinal immunology and disease pathogenesis.
• Design, conduct, and oversee basic and translational research studies.
• Lead investigations examining the role of glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPX3) in the development and progression of Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE).
• Investigate the mechanisms through which N-acetylcysteine influences disease severity in established and novel murine models of EoE.
• Conduct research exploring the role of selenoproteins in T-cell biology and immune regulation.
• Complete experiments and analyses that support ongoing collaborative projects and manuscript development.

Grant Funding and Scholarly Activity

• Develop and submit applications for extramural funding from federal agencies, foundations, and other funding organizations.
• Maintain sufficient external funding to support research activities and personnel.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Present research findings at institutional, regional, national, and international scientific meetings.
• Contribute to collaborative grant applications and multidisciplinary research initiatives.

Laboratory Oversight and Mentorship

• Supervise research staff, trainees, and laboratory personnel involved in ongoing projects.
• Provide scientific guidance and mentorship to students and research assistants.
• Mentor undergraduate research trainees and support their professional development.
• Foster a collaborative and productive laboratory environment.
• Ensure compliance with institutional, regulatory, and laboratory safety standards.

Technical Expertise and Research Operations

• Perform and oversee experiments utilizing:
• Primary cell culture techniques
• Organoid culture systems
• Mouse models of Eosinophilic Esophagitis
• Flow cytometry and immune cell characterization
• Molecular and cellular biology methodologies
• Analyze experimental data and prepare reports, presentations, and manuscripts.
• Manage research resources and ensure efficient utilization of laboratory infrastructure.

Institutional and Professional Engagement

• Participate actively in Vanderbilt Digestive Disease Research Center (DDRC) activities and initiatives.
• Attend and present at weekly laboratory and division research meetings.
• Engage in departmental, institutional, and professional service activities.
• Collaborate with faculty and research teams across disciplines to advance scientific discovery.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• PhD, MD, MD/PhD, or equivalent doctoral degree in Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Gastroenterology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in laboratory-based biomedical research.
• Experience with experimental design, data analysis, and scientific publication.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to collaborative research efforts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience studying gastrointestinal diseases, immunology, or inflammatory disorders.
• Experience with mouse models of disease.
• Expertise in flow cytometry, primary cell culture, or organoid culture systems.
• Track record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Experience mentoring students, trainees, or laboratory personnel.
• Experience preparing grant applications and securing research funding.

Performance Expectations

Success in this role will be demonstrated through:

• Development of a productive and sustainable independent research program.
• Successful acquisition and maintenance of extramural funding.
• Publication of high-quality scientific research in peer-reviewed journals.
• Effective leadership and mentorship of trainees and laboratory personnel.
• Active participation in departmental and center-wide research initiatives.
• Meaningful contributions to the scientific understanding of Eosinophilic Esophagitis, redox biology, and immune regulation.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Vanderbilt Health is committed to fostering an environment where everyone has the chance to thrive and is committed to the principles of equal opportunity. EOE/Vets/Disabled.