The Department of Oral Rehabilitation and Biosciences is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar with PhD in Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or Pharmacology to begin immediately. The successful candidate will be joining an enthusiastic and dynamic group. The position requires research performance with the goals of the principal investigator, Ana Paula P. Fugolin (DDS, MS, PhD). The laboratory is dynamic, vibrant, and funded by the NIH/NIDCR. We are heavily focused on developing, characterizing, and validating stimuli-responsive nanoparticles to carrier therapeutic agents to restore hemostasis and promote new tissue formation in oral inflammatory diseases. Our laboratory is rife with opportunities to publish papers, submit grant proposals, build network, present at scientific meetings, and work with partners in industry and academia.

There are currently two main projects in our lab:

1. Bio-Responsive and Immune Protein-Based Therapies for Inhibition of Proteolytic Enzymes in Dental Tissues. This project aims to develop multifunctional bio-responsive platforms capable of interacting dynamically with enzymes and cytokines present in pathogenic oral conditions by modulating their activity and, ultimately, promoting new tissue formation (NIH DE032302).

2. Design and Synthesis of Self-Healing Dental Materials. This project aims to develop dental materials capable of inhibiting microcrack propagation within a restoration and promote autonomous microstructural healing under masticatory forces and thermal stress. We are engineering a novel, microcapsule-based, self-healing dental material system for the expressed purpose of increasing the clinical survival of dental composite-based restorations, which often fail due to fracture (NIDCR DE028876).

The successful candidate will have extensive experience in cell culture, synthesis of responsive nanoparticles and hydrogels, and analytic techniques to assess drug release kinetics, responsiveness, and stability. It is expected that the appointed candidate works independently, play an active role seeking career and research advice, perform the research required by the supervisor to a high standard, in accordance with institutional and federal regulations and ethical standards, and work in a collegial and cooperative manner with the supervisor and other co-workers. Career development training opportunities are highly encouraged by the PI and are plentiful at OHSU.

• PhD in Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or Pharmacology
• Experience in synthesizing and fully characterizing responsive nanoparticles and hydrogels for carrying therapeutic agents
• Enthusiasm and ability to learn new skills
• Well organized and ability to work on multiple projects
• Excellent communication skills
• Work well independently and as a member of a highly collaborative team
• Ability to write manuscript for publication
• Work hours are M-F, 8-5 with occasional after hours and weekend attendance required

Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu.