Postdoctoral Scholar (Food-Gut-Brain Lab)

Postdoctoral Scholar in the Food-Gut-Brain Lab at Penn State University Park leads and assists research projects focused on how carbohydrate structures in foods and climate-smart crops influence eating behavior, metabolism, and cognition; explores valorization of dietary fibers and polyphenols from food byproducts; investigates health impacts of process-induced compounds and food-based strategies to modulate outcomes. The role emphasizes building independent research directions, grant writing, and mentoring students. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in a relevant field by appointment; desired qualifications include experience with animal models, chemistry of dietary carbohydrates, polyphenols, Maillard reaction products, LC-MS, and gut microbiome characterization. A strong publication record and collaborative, creative scholarly work are valued; position aims for completion by December 1, 2026, with review starting immediately and continuing until filled.