Postdoctoral Research Associate - Ophthalmology

Postdoctoral Research Associate position open in the Williams Lab in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences.

The Williams Lab is seeking a postdoctoral researcher with experience in molecular and cellular neurobiology to study neuronal regeneration and preservation in retinal mouse models of injury and disease. This project will examine how cellular metabolism impacts vulnerability or survival during neurodegenerative conditions in vivo. Responsibilities of the postdoc will include, but are not limited to: in vivo imaging of biosensors to read out diversity and dynamics of metabolic states in retinal ganglion cells; spatial transcriptomic and correlated metabolic analysis of retinal ganglion cells; treatment of retinal ganglion cells in models of degeneration; data collection and analysis; and preparation of presentations and manuscripts.

The Williams lab is an established research group at WashU Medicine. Our research goals are focused on identifying fundamental mechanisms of neuronal loss to better understand why neurons die or axons are damaged to ultimately establish new strategies for the preservation or restoration of neural tissue. We use multiple approaches, but focus on mouse models of retinal ganglion cell neurodegeneration, in vivo microscopy, AAV mediated gene delivery and knockout, along with transcriptomic and immunohistological analyses.

The postdoctoral researcher will have the opportunity to work with the broad Neuroscience community at the WashU. Our lab has established collaborations with investigators specializing in electrophysiology, large volume electron microscopy and other areas to support independent research projects established by postdoctoral scholars. In addition to high-quality research facilities, career and professional development training for postdoctoral researchers is provided through the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, Career Center, Teaching Center, and campus groups.

Applicants should be recent PhD graduates in Neuroscience or related fields with experience in transcriptomic material generation and analysis, in vivo 2-photon microscopy, adeno-associated virus production and use, experimental design, and data analysis. Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

Information on being a postdoc at WashU in St. Louis can be found at .

For more information about the lab please visit .

Trains under the supervision of a faculty mentor including (but not limited to):

• Manages their own project, which should lead to first author publication(s).
• Develops expertise in isolation and transcriptomic analysis of retinal neurons, surgical approaches to optic nerve injury and glaucoma in mice, and adeno associated virus production and application.
• Develops proficiency in career skills, including writing, public speaking, networking, and critical evaluation of scientific literature.
• Presents scientific work both inside and outside the University with excellent oral communication skills.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Prepares and submits papers on research with excellent writing skills.
• Designs research experiments.
• Evaluates research findings and reports results.
• Conscientious discharge of research responsibilities.
• Maintains conformity with ethical standards in research.
• Maintains compliance with good laboratory practice including the maintenance of adequate research records.
• Engages in open and timely discussion with their mentor regarding possession or distribution of material, reagents, or records belonging to their laboratory and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques privately or in publications.
• Collegial conduct towards co-trainees, staff members and members of the research group.
• Adherence to all applicable University policies, procedures and regulations. All data, research records and materials and other intellectual property generated in University laboratories remain the property of the University.

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 Range:

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time. Required Qualifications

Education:

Ph.D., M.D. Or Equivalent Terminal Or Doctoral Degree.

Certifications:

No specific certification is required for this position.

Work Experience:

No specific work experience is required for this position.

Skills:

Not Applicable

Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position. More About This Job WashU seeks highly motivated individuals who are able to perform duties in a manner consistent with our core mission and guiding principles. Preferred Qualifications

Education:

No additional education beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Certifications:

No additional certification beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Work Experience:

No additional work experience beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Skills:

Collaboration, Data Analysis, Data Interpretations, Experimentation, Laboratory Operations, Laboratory Techniques, Researching, Results Reporting, Scientific Writing Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ .

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 ... and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. 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 to view a summary of benefits. EEO 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 Universitys 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.Washington University is dedicated to building a 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.