Summary
The Cleveland Clinic Health System is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join the laboratory of Dr. Michaela Gack at the Florida Research & Innovation Center (FRIC). This training position provides hands-on practical research experience and mentoring under the direct supervision of a Principal Investigator, designed to develop the skills needed to become an independent scientist. The program is expected to be completed within 5 years, with compensation adhering to the NIH NRSA Postdoctoral Salary Scale.
Job Overview
| Field | Details |
| Designation | Postdoctoral Fellow |
| Principal Investigator | Michaela Gack, PhD |
| Job Code / Requisition ID | 000773 / 349284 |
| Employment Type | Full-Time |
| Location | Port Saint Lucie, Florida, USA |
| Facility / Department | Florida Research and Innovation Center (FRIC) |
| Salary / Stipend | NIH NRSA Postdoctoral Scale ($63,480 – $77,076 depending on experience) |
| Application Deadline | September 28, 2026 |
Research Area
The Gack Laboratory conducts cutting-edge basic and translational research focusing on:
- Immunology
- Virology (Global Center for Pathogen Research & Human Health)
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Education:
- Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in Immunology, Virology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related field.
- M.D. with relevant laboratory research experience may substitute for a Ph.D.
- Experience:
- Prior research or academic laboratory experience (graduate student research fulfills this requirement).
- Demonstrated track record in scientific writing and publications.
- Language Requirements:
- Proof of English proficiency is required for international applicants arriving on J-1, J-2, or F-1 + OPT visa status.
- Core Competencies:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Collaborative work ethic with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
- High level of motivation and dedication to scientific inquiry.
Job Description & Responsibilities
- Research & Experimentation: Plan, design, execute, and troubleshoot independent experimental projects aimed at understanding host-pathogen interactions and immune mechanisms.
- Data Analysis & Writing: Analyze and interpret experimental data; prepare high-impact manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication and scientific presentation.
- Collaboration & Mentorship: Work collegially as part of the research team and mentor junior lab members as needed.
- Laboratory Participation: Participate in regular lab meetings, journal clubs, and institute-wide scientific seminars.
- Safety & Compliance: Adhere to all institutional biosafety protocols and handle specimens/reagents safely in accordance with facility PPE standards.
NIH NRSA Stipend Scale (FY 2026 Reference)
| Years of Experience | Annual Stipend |
| 0 | $63,480 |
| 1 | $63,900 |
| 2 | $64,380 |
| 3 | $66,948 |
| 4 | $69,180 |
| 5 | $71,748 |
| 6 | $74,424 |
| 7 or more | $77,076 |
How to Apply
Interested candidates should compile their application materials and submit them directly via email to the Principal Investigator:
- Recipient: Dr. Michaela Gack
- Email:
gackm@ccf.org - Required Documents:
- Complete Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Brief description of research background, interests, and goals
- List of publications
- Contact information for 3 professional references
Candidates can also view the official listing and submit their applicant profile through the Cleveland Clinic Careers Portal.
Last Date for Apply
- Application Deadline: September 28, 2026
