Postdoctoral or Staff Scientist

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow or Staff Scientist. This position is focused on optimizing human dopaminergic differentiation and crucial aspects of aging in iPSC derived neurons a they relate to PD.

Recent groundbreaking discoveries allow us to transduce adult human skin cells with specific factors to generate cells that exhibit characteristics of embryonic stem cells. These cells, termed induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), will be used as experimental pre-clinical models to study disease mechanisms unique to Parkinson's disease and will become a powerful tool for drug screening.

The absence of cellular models of Parkinson's disease represents a major bottleneck in Parkinson's disease research. If an “authentic” cellular model for Parkinson's disease is found, it could be instantly translated into a wide range of clinical applications.

The Schuele lab has developed a rich library of patient-specific cell lines from individuals with PD carrying genetic and sporadic forms of the disease. Furthermore, we developed specific stem cell lines in which we corrected the underlying mutation thus creating isogenic controls. The overall goal is to utilize these new disease models to exploit disease mechanisms of PD, discover environmental toxins, and for innovative drug screening.

In addition to a resume/cv, interested applicants should include a cover letter to describing their qualifications, interests and potential contribution. In addition, three references may be requested. Applicant materials received without a cover letter will not be considered. Relocation assistance is not available.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD degree or equivalent degree in biological sciences, 3+ years experience, with a strong background in human stem cell culture and differentiation techniques into neuronal cell types; profound background in molecular biology (extraction methods, PCR, immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry) and experience with development of cellular functional and biochemical assays. Excellent communication skills (e.g. publications, progress reports) are expected from the applicant.