Postdoctoral Research Associate

Job Description

Position Summary

We invite highly motivated candidates to apply for positions as postdoctoral fellows in the laboratory of Dr. Jeff Milbrandt in the Department of Genetics at Washington University in St. Louis. Our primary goal is to unravel the mechanism of axon degeneration and its role in neurodegenerative disease. Many of our projects are pursued collaboratively with the Aaron DiAntonio lab and focus on how defects in NAD homeostasis alter disease progression in peripheral neuropathy, ALS and retinal degenerative disorders. One set of studies is aimed at determining how the NADase activity of the TIR domain protein SARM1 is regulated and how its activity influences downstream signaling pathways that control axon maintenance. Another area of interest focuses on motor neuron abnormalities that occur in ALS and in peripheral neuropathy. In particular, we are interested in the unique metabolic vulnerability of motor axons and how metabolic deficits and mitochondrial dysfunction in Schwann cells contribute to motor neuron diseases. We are also pursuing studies to define the cellular composition of peripheral nerves, particularly the microglial-like cells that contribute to nerve homeostasis as well as disease progression. These projects utilize a wide breadth of technologies from single cell sequencing to mass spectrometry to high throughput, quantitative imaging. In addition, we use human genetics, AAV viral therapies, and disease models, including mutant mice and iPSC-derived neurons to further understand neurodegenerative processes. These projects are funded by multiple grants from the NIH. This opportunity requires the ability to visit St. Louis for potential interviews.

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D., M.D. or equivalent terminal or doctoral degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in biological sciences or related field.
• Experience in molecular biology, neuroscience, or genomics.
• Strong communication skills.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Applicant Special Instructions

Step 1) To apply for this position, applicants should email a single PDF file consisting of a letter of interest and CV to Dr. Jeff Milbrandt at axonal@genetics.wustl.edu.

Step 2) Arrange for three letters of reference to be sent to Dr. Jeff Milbrandt at axonal@genetics.wustl.edu.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.