Job Summary

We seek a postdoc who will develop an emerging research area at the interface of lipid and iron transport/metabolism. Approximately half time will be spent working in the Murray-Kolb lab to participate in several ongoing human trials, designed to assess the relation between iron status and cognitive functioning, mood, and quality of life. As part of these studies, the postdoc will gain a deeper knowledge of iron metabolism and learn the many factors that play a role in iron absorption as well as factors that must be considered to appropriately assess and accurately categorize an individual’s iron status. Working in the Murray-Kolb lab will also provide skills and knowledge in iron biomarkers, what each of them represents, when to choose which ones to measure, based on the study question, and how to measure them. Finally, the postdoc will learn how to design and carry out human clinical trials. These skills, coupled with those developed in the Henderson lab (see below), will position the postdoc well for future faculty positions. This individual will have a unique understanding of both lipid metabolism (see below) as well as iron metabolism and how to conduct studies using animal models and humans. The postdoc will also be one of the few investigators at the forefront of studying the interface between iron and lipid metabolism and may be the only one who will have received formal training in both areas. 

Additional Information

In addition to the above scientific contributions and training, the postdoc will receive additional training in research, teaching, and outreach. Drs. Henderson and Murray-Kolb are dedicated to helping the postdoc develop strong proficiency in each of the following areas. Research Skills and Scientific Thinking: Drs. Henderson and Murray-Kolb each hold weekly lab meetings with all lab members with regular “journal club” presentations. The postdoc will regularly present and critique published literature. Weekly 1:1 meetings as well as regular meetings with both mentors present will be held to support the postdoc’s scientific development. Communication: The postdoc will be encouraged to regularly present at conferences on campus and at scientific society conferences, an experience that will develop oral presentation skills. Written communication skills will be developed through supporting writing of a postdoctoral fellow grant application. Experience in communicating to a variety of audiences, such as mentoring students in the laboratory, will also be provided. Leadership: The postdoc will be given a leadership role in his research projects, to further develop skills in coordinating with multiple contributors. The postdoc will also be encouraged to seek out leadership opportunities through organizations on campus and in professional societies. Project Management: The postdoc will be mentored in developing project timelines, breaking down complex tasks, time management, managing data, and record keeping.

Application Materials

1. Cover letter (highlighting interest, qualifications, and scholarly goals)
2. CV
3. Names and contact information for 3 references
4. Writing sample

The priority deadline is May 27, 2026, but all applications will be considered until the position is filled. The ideal start date is July 1, 2026 but other dates will be considered. This appointment is funded for one year from date of hire. Questions about the position can be addressed to Dr. Murray-Kolb (lmurrayk@purdue.edu) or Dr. Henderson (gchender@purdue.edu). 

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD in Nutrition, Biochemistry, Physiology, or related field. Degree conferred by the expected start date.
• Ability to work independently and as an interdisciplinary team member

Preferred Qualifications:

• Excellent academic writing ability.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Detail-oriented work style.
• Statistical proficiency (SAS and R preferred).

Background Check

A background check is required for employment in this position.

Equal Opportunity

Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access university.