Postdoctoral Associate

Conduct research in an externally funded program investigating growth control, morphogenesis, cell communication, and tissue mechanics in development and disease states. The Waksman Institute, joint with the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, conducts molecular, genetic, cell biological, and biochemical research on questions related to the control of organ growth and morphogenesis. A candidate is desired who can conduct research on questions related to biomechanical signaling, organ growth, and development using both Drosophila and cultured mammalian cell models. The individual will also assist in training and supervising more junior research staff and students. The individual will report directly to the laboratory Principle Investigator (PI).

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in biology or subfield thereof (e.g., genetics, biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology, cell biology, neurobiology), and relevant research experience in an academic research environment. Must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and should be able to effectively communicate science to a variety of audiences.

An advanced education in genetics, cell biology and molecular biology is required in order for the individual to effectively conduct research in this area, and to train students in research. The research projects cover a large span of life science topics and technical approaches, including genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, and molecular biology.

Experience with Drosophila genetics, experience with mammalian cell culture, experience studying the Hippo signaling pathway, experience studying mechanotransduction, experience with training and supervising undergraduates in a laboratory setting will all be assets to this position.

Must be familiar with Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, and Fiji. Must be familiar with confocal microscopes, tissue dissection and staining, gel electrophoresis, PCR machines, Apple computers, Windows PC's, western blotting, and quantitative image analysis.

Able to stand, lift, bend. Able to occasionally lift and/or carry objects weighing up to 25 pounds. Able to reach and grasp with arms and hands. Work involves possible exposure to malodorous vapors and toxic chemicals. Long periods of standing and/or sitting.