Post Doctoral Scholar - Physiology & Cell Biology

About the role

The Neginskaya Laboratory in the Department of Physiology and Cell Biology at The Ohio State University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position to investigate the molecular mechanisms of mitochondrial permeability transition. Mitochondrial permeability transition is a stress-induced increase in the permeability of the inner mitochondrial membrane that contributes to cell death and tissue injury in cardiovascular, neurological, and other diseases. Current projects focus on the structural organization of mitochondrial membrane protein complexes under stress, the molecular mechanisms underlying mitochondrial permeability transition, and the signaling pathways that regulate mitochondrial dysfunction. The laboratory employs an interdisciplinary approach that integrates mitochondrial patch-clamp electrophysiology, advanced live-cell and label-free imaging, structural biology (cryo-electron tomography and cross-linking mass spectrometry), and biochemical and molecular approaches.

Responsibilities

• Pursue specialized research training, education, and experience under the guidance of Dr. Neginskaya.
• Plan, design, and execute experiments of considerable scope and complexity to investigate the mechanisms and role of mitochondrial dysfunction in ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart and brain.
• Collect and analyze data for research sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other funding agencies.
• Identify and investigate significant research questions.
• Develop and troubleshoot new experimental techniques and protocols.
• Attend research seminars.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation and scientific writing.
• Participate in the preparation of grant applications for extramural funding.

Requirements

• A PhD in biochemistry, cell biology, biophysics, physiology, or a related field.
• A strong publication record.
• The ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Experience in mitochondrial biology, membrane protein biochemistry, electrophysiology, live-cell microscopy, cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) or cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET), structural biology, quantitative image analysis, mouse models, or bioenergetics.

Laboratory Values

Our laboratory places a strong emphasis on scientific integrity, transparency, and ethical conduct. We seek team members who value honesty, take ownership of their work, and contribute to a supportive and respectful research environment.

Opportunities

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop independent research projects, learn unique experimental approaches, contribute to interdisciplinary studies of mitochondrial biology, and present their work at national and international scientific conferences.