Postdoctoral Associate | Laboratory of Amyloid Biology

About the role

The Laboratory of Amyloid Biology investigates the molecular mechanisms of amyloid filament formation and how these processes cause disease. Amyloid deposits are a defining feature of many neurodegenerative diseases and systemic amyloidoses, yet how these protein assemblies form, propagate, and contribute to tissue degeneration is unclear. The lab bridges structural biology and neuroscience to investigate three closely related areas: 1) how proteins fold and assemble into amyloid filaments, 2) how these filaments propagate, and 3) how they disrupt cellular function and drive degeneration. Through this work, we aim to understand the molecular basis of amyloid diseases and inform future approaches to treatment.

The Postdoctoral Associate will design and conduct independent and collaborative research in the Laboratory of Amyloid Biology to investigate the molecular mechanisms of amyloid filament formation, propagation, and disease. Bridging structural biology, protein biochemistry, and neuroscience, the researcher will develop and apply experimental approaches to understand how amyloid assemblies form and contribute to cellular dysfunction and degeneration. Working with the Head of Laboratory, the Postdoctoral Associate will develop research questions, analyze and interpret findings, and communicate results through scientific presentations and publications.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute research projects
• Analyze findings and maintain accurate records
• Communicate findings and contribute to publications
• Perform related duties & responsibilities as assigned/requested

Qualifications

Required qualifications:

• PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, biology, neuroscience, structural biology, or a related field
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, conduct, and interpret research using experimental approaches relevant to protein biochemistry, structural biology, or neuroscience
• Ability to critically evaluate scientific literature, develop testable hypotheses, and troubleshoot experimental problems
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to maintain accurate research records
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative research team

Preferred qualifications:

• Mouse handling and mouse surgery
• Development of knock-in or transgenic mouse models
• Molecular cloning including lentiviral and AAV production
• Ultramicrotomy
• Cryo-electron tomography using ultramicrotomy or Focused Ion Beam (FIB) milling
• Cryo-electron microscopy single-particle analysis
• Protein purification and biochemistry
• Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy
• Programming for scientific data analysis

Prior research experience in amyloid biology, neurodegenerative diseases or optogenetics is also preferred.

Pay

Salary: USD $72,100 per year.