Name of Study: Integration of serum metabolome and gut microbiome to identify host-microbe metabolic interactions in Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) 

Website link: https://sites.google.com/ualberta.ca/haqqlaboratory/ 

Dr. Andrea Haqq, Department of Pediatrics 

This position has a start date of (as soon as possible) and is within the Department of Pediatrics (www.pediatrics.ualberta.ca).  

Description of Study: 

Reporting to Dr. Andrea Haqq, Principal Investigator, the main focus of the Post-Doc position will be to complete a cross-sectional study with the aim to conduct untargeted metabolomics analyses to explore metabolic processes and pathways that may link gut microbiota alterations to host health in adolescents with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). 

The specific objectives of the study are (1) to comprehensively characterize the serum metabolome and gut microbiome in adolescents with and without PWS; and (2) to explore functional correlations between PWS metabolomic signature, gut microbiota profile, and clinical parameters of metabolic dysfunction (insulin resistance [Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance, HOMA-IR], dyslipidemia, and more). 

Location:  

Employment will be primary in-person at the University of Alberta, at North Campus Edmonton and/or hybrid. 

Duties and Responsibilities: 

The main responsibilities of the Post-Doctoral Fellow are carried out in consultation with the Principal Investigator and include:  

• Develop, coordinate and execute research project work plans and timelines. 
• Write research grant proposals to secure funding for additional projects under supervision. 
• Develops and carries out independent research 
• Assist with the ongoing growth and development of the projects. 
• Prepare and submit conference abstracts and manuscripts under supervision. 
• Perform other related duties as required. 

Minimum Qualifications: 

• PhD in Human Nutrition or related discipline 
• Evidence of strong writing and communication skills 
• Evidence of peer-reviewed publications  
• Working knowledge and experience in biostatistics 
• Working knowledge of medical and nutritional assessment methodology  
• Ability to work independently as well as contributing to team development, including during the supervisor's periodic absences from the team. 

Salary: 

The annual stipend offered will be consistent with those of other national agencies (CIHR, HSF of Canada) and may be renewable for up to 4 years, depending on funding and performance. 

This is a full-time, grant-funded position for a one-year appointment with the possibility of renewal. The minimum salary begins at $38,981.25/annum + benefits and is commensurate with experience and qualifications. An overview of the benefits can be viewed here.  

To Apply:  

Submit your CV, a cover letter that outlines your career objectives and why you are a good fit for the project. Please include contact information for three references 

Contact Information:  haqq@ualberta.ca 

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.