About the Provider
The Wu Lab at the Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD student position starting in Spring 2026. The lab’s research centers on Functional Foods, Precision Nutrition, and Gut Microbiome, with a strong emphasis on translational research for chronic disease prevention.
The selected PhD student will receive a full research assistantship and contribute to cutting-edge projects in nutrition and food science, including but not limited to:
- Investigating sex-specific mechanisms in obesity-related colorectal cancer (CRC) and developing dietary prevention strategies.
- Exploring how diet and physical activity interact in the development of metabolic dysfunction.
- Examining the gut microbiome and microbial metabolites in the nutritional prevention of chronic diseases.
- Utilizing innovative 3D ex vivo models (e.g., organoids) to advance translational applications.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
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Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Food Science, Nutrition, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biology, Animal Science, Microbiology, Kinesiology, or a related field.
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Research Experience: Strong background in preclinical models (e.g., animal/rodent studies, cell and organoid cultures).
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Technical Skills: Solid training in molecular biology and biochemical techniques such as qPCR, Western blot, ELISA, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry.
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Data Analysis: Experience in omics data analysis (microbiome, metabolomics, or transcriptomics).
- Academic Output: Demonstrated record of scientific presentations and/or publications.
Other Requirements:
- High motivation and ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
- Strong proficiency in written and spoken English.
How to Apply
- Prepare your resume/CV highlighting relevant academic and research experience.
- Send it via email to xwu@umass.edu.
- Include details of publications, conference presentations, and prior laboratory experience.