Postdoctoral Researcher – Gerencser lab

POSITION SUMMARY
The Gerencser lab at the Buck Institute seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher to study mitochondrial signaling in type 2 diabetes (T2D). Dr. Akos Gerencser’s laboratory uses cell biology, advanced microscopy, and single-cell gene expression techniques to address fundamental questions about mitochondrial function in health and aging. A current emphasis is the regulation of mitochondrial function in pancreatic β-cells in human type 2 diabetes. This position is focused on wet-bench experimental work and related data analysis using time-lapse microscopy of human primary cell cultures and their genetic or pharmacological manipulations to address mechanistic questions. 

PROJECT OVERVIEW
Altered cellular energetics and related cellular signaling contribute to human disease in general and physiological aging and chronic diseases in particular, including cancer, neurodegeneration, ischemic heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Mitochondrial metabolism also plays a central role in insulin secretion in pancreatic β-cells. The project investigates the molecular pathways that make healthy β-cell bioenergetics – and insulin secretion – normally highly responsive to glucose, and pathways that may fail in type 2 diabetes. Relevant papers from our lab to this project are PMIDs 26204464, 27404273, and 27771512. The project uses microscale bioenergetic assaying of human primary β-cell cultures, including mitochondrial membrane potential and Seahorse cell respirometry assays, assessment of β-cell physiology, and top-down analysis of cellular energy metabolism. Good knowledge of cellular metabolic pathways is important.

The successful candidate will use a fully motorized microscopy system, and optionally a high throughput robotic liquid handling, CRISPR-Cas9 knockout, and electroporation. You will receive training in the experimental technologies used in this project, design and conduct experiments, and analyze data. You are expected to lead your own project, write up, and present results.

QUALIFICATIONS
Essential Requirements

• Ph.D. in biological or biomedical sciences, bioengineering, or bioinformatics
• Solid knowledge of cell and mitochondrial metabolism
• Cell culturing experience
• Wet bench experience
• Data analysis using spreadsheets
• Proven publication record
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to prioritize and manage your time
• Ability to work independently and successfully within a group

Desired Skills

• Cell or mitochondrial respirometry
• Fluorescence microscopy
• Experience in β-cell physiology or in diabetes
• Proficiency in metabolic modeling
• Experience in RNAi or CRISPR methods
• Familiarity with laboratory automation

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• The starting salary for a new postdoc is $68,000 in 2023, with a range up to $82,000 commensurate with postdoc level and experience.
• Exciting, dynamic work environment at the forefront of science using state-of-the-art techniques.
• Generous benefits package including health insurance, paid parental leave, childcare assistance, generous vacation/sick leave, and 401(k) with 5% employer match.
• Collaborative environment – both for science and social activities.

TO APPLY
Please apply online by submitting your CV along with a cover letter describing your research interests and contact information for 2 references. 

Tagged as: biology, diabetes, fellow, postdoc, researcher, science jobs