joining the group

Those interested in doing innovative and interdisciplinary work to explore new areas of microbial chemistry are invited to apply at all levels, as described below. Potential lab members from all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences are welcome: we are committed to building a collaborative and inclusive environment where we work together to tackle challenging problems with scientific creativity and rigor.

Undergraduates: Undergraduate research opportunities are expected to open up for Summer and Fall 2025 - details once lab construction is complete. All undergraduate research is for credit or funded. Students participating in summer research will work with Dr. Kenney in the spring to find an appropriate funding source - note that there may be opportunities for students from other universities, including via the NSF REU program. No specific courses are required, though students should have completed introductory chemistry and biology coursework or should have an otherwise strong background in those areas. Prior research experience is welcome but not an absolute requirement.

Research Technicians: Positions will be posted here and on the Pitt Careers site when available.

Post-Baccalaureate Researchers: If you are interested in funded post-baccalaureate research, you can consider applying to the Hot Metal Bridge program.

Graduate Students: Students can currently join the lab through the Pitt Chemistry graduate program, through the Pitt/CMU MSTP program (which the Chemistry Department participates in), or through the joint Pitt/CMU Molecular Biophysics and Structural Biology (MBSB) program. Note that students apply and are admitted only through graduate programs - they are not directly admitted to research groups. Admitted students are encouraged email Dr. Kenney to discuss possible rotation timing and projects; in some cases, it may be possible to spend the summer before your formal matriculation in the lab as well.

Postdoctoral Researchers: Researchers who have or who will soon complete a Ph.D. in chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, computational biology, or another relevant discipline are always welcome to apply for a postdoctoral position. Please contact Dr. Kenney via email, and attach your full academic CV (listing preprints and works in review), a ~2 page narrative summary of your research contributions to date and your scientific and professional goals for a postdoctoral research position in this lab, and contact information for 3 letters of reference.