Our human microbiota consists of complex communities where microbial interactions modulate bacterial behavior and influence human health. The Lewin Lab is interested in understanding the role of microbe-microbe and microbe-host interactions in polymicrobial sites, especially the oral microbiome. We study oral microbial communities in vitro, in mouse models of infection, and in the human oral cavity to understand these interactions in the context of microbial diversity and the dynamic infection environment. The lab uses classic wet-lab approaches and cutting-edge computational techniques such as metatranscriptomics, comparative genomics, microbial community analyses, transposon sequencing (Tn-seq), and bacterial single-cell RNA-seq.
We have funding for a postdoc to study how genomic and transcriptomic heterogeneity interplays with microbial interactions in the oral cavity. Postdocs are also encouraged to apply for independent funding to pursue this project and projects of their own design.
The Lewin Lab is housed in the Center for Global Health and Diseases and the Department of Pathology at Case Western Reserve University and affiliated with the Case Western-Veterans Affairs Center for Antimicrobial Resistance and Epidemiology in Cleveland, Ohio. This environment offers a dynamic and collaborative research community to study the human microbiota and its role in disease. In addition, Cleveland is a vibrant and affordable city with a small town feel and big city amenities.
The successful applicant will demonstrate a commitment to research, a collaborative work ethic, and strong communication skills, both written and verbal. Scientists with experience in relevant areas such as DNA/RNA-seq, microbial genetics, microbiology culturing including anaerobic culturing, microbial community sequencing analyses, and/or confocal microscopy are encouraged to apply. In addition, the Lewin Lab is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable research environment. All candidates should share these core values, and candidates with diverse backgrounds and identities are strongly encouraged to apply.
To apply, please email Dr. Lewin (grl48@case.edu) with (1) a cover letter that details your research interests and why you are applying to this opportunity in particular; (2) a CV; and (3) the names and contact information for three professional references. For more information, see thelewinlab.com or reach out to Dr. Lewin directly.