Post Doctoral Scholar - Heart and Vascular Institute

Position Specifics

The Penn State College of Medicine, Department of Heart and Vascular Institute, in Hershey, PA is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar. This position in Dr. Shyam Bansal’s laboratory will study the role of inflammatory immune responses in mediating cardiovascular diseases. Our laboratory uses multidisciplinary approaches to study the role of different immune subsets in regulating left-ventricular remodeling and cardiac dysfunction during heart failure. Our research spans from human to animal studies, employing novel imaging and electrophysiologic techniques such as flow cytometry, vesicular analysis, and echocardiography.

Responsibilities

• Perform small animal cardiac structure and functional analysis and conduct coronary ligation surgeries. This includes independently performing small animal echocardiography, real-time measurements of function using 2D, M-mode, & Doppler technology, as well as data analysis.
• Tissue harvesting, staining and flow analysis for immune cell subsets.
• Perform data analysis, and finally, write manuscripts/grants originating from this data.
• Isolate and perform analysis of exosomes.
• Maintain cell line, perform pharmacological assays of cell lines with the microplate reader, perform Western blotting assays and quantitative RT-PCR assays.
• Independently monitor and carry out oversight of animal lines including transgenic mice colony maintenance, employing gel electrophoresis and PCR techniques.
• Analyze and plot data obtained from the assays performed.
• Provide training of other technicians to ensure that duties above are properly and aptly executed.
• The candidate will also be expected to analyze the data collected and present the results in formal presentations, manuscripts, and grant applications.

Qualifications

Specific criteria include:

• Effective knowledge - Knowledge of lab practices and procedures in animal handling, dissection, Western blotting, PCR, fluorescence imaging, sub-cloning, and transfection.
• Accountability & Self-Management - Work independently, with minimal supervision by PI. Perform routine duties using established procedures with coordination and effective communication with the PI.
• Teamwork & Leadership - Independently develop and implement laboratory policies, update standard operating procedures that should ensure safe practices for all laboratory members.
• Communication - Communicate effectively with PI and other laboratory members as the projects are executed. Excellent verbal and written communication required for manuscript and grant preparation.
• Innovation & Problem Solving - Will contribute to the optimization of experimental procedures that require novel approaches.

Education Requirements

The successful candidate will possess a doctoral degree with expertise in molecular biology, experience with in-vivo and in-vitro models of inflammation testing, and experience with flow cytometry. Experience with cell culture techniques and demonstrated ability to isolate and culture primary cells is essential. Highly motivated candidates should apply for the position online by uploading a cover letter describing your relevant experience, your current curriculum vitae, and the names of at least 3 job references.

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.