Post-doctoral Research Fellow, Orthopaedic Infection Research

Site: Massachusetts General Physicians Organization, Inc.

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Job Summary

The pioneering efforts of the Harris Orthopaedics Laboratory have positively impacted the quality of life of millions of patients through innovation and evidence-based medicine since its inception in 1969. The mission of

the laboratory is to improve patient outcomes through materials science and translational research with an emphasis on orthopaedic applications. Our is lab is a hub for scientists and engineers looking to make an impact in medicine.

Harris Orthopaedics Laboratory is focused on the development of polymeric and hybrid materials for applications in orthopaedics. Ebru Oral, Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery https://connects.catalyst.harvard.edu/Profiles/display/Person/1013 is looking to hire a fulltime post-doctoral research fellow for a 3-4 year appointment. The laboratory is a focal point in the orthopedic research

community for development of new materials and test methods for total joint replacements, which are implanted in over 2 million patients in the US alone each year. This is a great opportunity for scientists looking to apply their basic knowledge in translational research.

The development of antibacterial controlled release devices is a current focus for addressing periprosthetic joint infection. The laboratory is involved in the conception of materials, development of application processes,

characterization for the appropriate clinical indication and the safety and efficacy testing in pre-clinical disease and surgery models.

Qualifications

HOW TO APPLY:

Please submit your resume and cover letter to eoral@mgh.harvard.edu by October 15, 2026. We will review applications as we receive them. Anticipated start date: December 1, 2025.

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The post-doctoral fellow will be responsible for:

• Establishment of monomicrobial and polymicrobial cultures relevant to musculoskeletal and implant associated infections (mainly Staphylococci)
• Physical and biochemical characterization of bacteria (planktonic and biofilms) using conventional bacteriological techniques, microplate-based assays, flow cytometry, and VITEK-based high throughput technology.
• Antibiotic resistance, tolerance, and virulence characterization
• Establishing cell cultures and associated molecular and biochemical assays.
• Molecular characterization of pathogens and host responses using DNA/RNA extraction, Real-time PCR, NGS Library prep and RNA-Seq
• Advanced Microscopy including Fluorescence imaging, Confocal imaging, Live imaging, and Electron microscopy (SEM/TEM)
• Bacterial transcriptomics and associated bioinformatic analyses for in-depth biofilm characterization.
• Host-pathogen interactions using in vitro and in vivo models.
• Drug susceptibility testing (MIC/MBC/MBEC) and antibacterial/anticolonization studies of material surfaces.
• Design and method development of in-vitro periprosthetic joint infection models and support preclinical in-vivo experiments to characterize bacteria from periprosthetic tissues and retrieved implant materials.
• Supervising biomedical research engineers in experimental work and presentation
• Working with other team members and collaborators supporting delivery device formulation and preclinical studies for safety and efficacy.

Skills/Abilities/Qualifications

We are interested in interviewing experienced candidates with a strong background in Microbiology of Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and gram-negative bacteria with good knowledge of BSL2

lab safety practices. Candidate with experience in establishing in-vitro models for host-pathogen studies and performing bacterial and/or host transcriptomics are preferred. Familiarity with analytical chemistry and polymer synthesis methods is a plus.

Degree Requirements

Ph.D. in Biological Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences or Biomedical Engineering. Strong background in Microbiology and Molecular Biology is required.

Additional Job Details (if applicable)

The compensation range for this role is between $70,000-$71,500

Final compensation will be determined based on years of relevant experience, skills, and internal equity.

Remote Type

Onsite

Work Location

80 Blossom Street

EEO Statement:

1300 Massachusetts General Physicians Organization, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. To ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Veteran's Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact Human Resources at (857)-282-7642.

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