With a major focus on skeletal muscle wasting across clinical conditions, the McDonald Lab of Integrative ‘Omics is a dry lab (computational biology) but also interfaces considerably with collaborators with expertise at the bench. The ideal applicant will bridge this gap, advancing research objectives through both wet and dry lab techniques, commensurate with experience, interest, and preference. Our current projects include research using data from established large cohort studies including COPD Etiology of Low-Lean muscle (CCELL), the Million Veteran Project (MVP) and the Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine Initiative (TOPMed) among others. Ongoing work is expected to yield high impact publications and future research directions. The ideal post-doctoral applicant is also encouraged to develop their own projects, acquiring skills during this position that will help them continue to the next phase of their career, whether that be industry, academic professorship, or a career as a research scientist.

The Laboratory of Integrative 'Omics places a high value on mentorship and sponsorship to assist trainees to achieve their desired career goals. The accepted applicant will produce high impact publications and work with cutting-edge data from local deeply-phenotyped cohorts as well as large established cohorts. The laboratory, as well as UAB as a whole, is committed to fostering the personal development of the applicant.  UAB is a highly collegial and interactive environment. UAB has an active Office of Postdoctoral Education (OPE) which provides mentoring and career guidance. Competitive postdoc awards are available including internships, grant incentives, funds to enhance education and collaboration outside UAB, and teaching opportunities at local universities. A Postdoc Research Day with monetary awards is held annually.

Birmingham, Alabama is great place to live with warm weather the majority of the year. The city has vibrant live music and restaurant scenes. The cost of living is low and has been ranked the #1 most affordable US city by Forbes. Birmingham is located approximately 3 hours driving to Atlanta or Nashville and approximately 4 hours driving to Florida beaches or New Orleans.

• PhD in genetics, genetic epidemiology, biostatistics, bioinformatics, genetics, bioenergetics, exercise physiology, or a related discipline. The ideal applicant is also highly self-motivated and eager to expand their scientific skill set.
• fluent in computer programming (R, plus at least one scripting language such as Python)
• proficient with tissue processing (e.g., blood and preferably skeletal muscle but can train)
• highly self-motivated and scientifically curious
• works well independently but also functions as part of a research team
• mastery of the English language including strong writing and public speaking skills