Sanford Burnham Prebys is a preeminent, independent biomedical research institute dedicated to understanding human biology and disease, and advancing scientific discoveries to profoundly impact human health. Our scientists are making research breakthroughs in cancer, neuroscience, immunology, and children's disease. We are also at the forefront of finding solutions for emerging health threats such as COVID-19, where we are working to identify drugs that may help millions of people. During our more than 40 year history, we have established an NCI-designated Cancer Center, designed one of the most sophisticated drug discovery centers in the nonprofit world, and created global collaborations that are leading to preventions, treatments and cures to improve human health.

The Huang laboratory has a Postdoctoral Associate position available. The candidate will be involved in characterizing roles for neuronal and glia-associated mutations observed in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The candidate will integrate AD-associated mutations into human ES cell lines which will be differentiated into mature neuronal, microglial, or astrocytic cell types. The candidate will characterize relevant behavioral phenotypes associated with these cell types in vitro, and determine how these glial cell types interact with neurons overall brain environment in mouse AD brain xenotransplant experiments. Microglial migratory behavior and morphological output will be characterized by two-photon imaging/histology, and overall effects on Abeta generation will be determined by microdialysis. The candidate will also observe the effects of glial xenotransplantation of various modified glial lines on mouse behavior and biochemical changes associated with AD.

TO APPLY: Interested candidates should apply online to the SBP career site by submitting one PDF document with a cover letter, CV, references and list of any publications or accomplishments.

Primary Responsibilities

• Independently design and perform experiments and procedures with high degree of complexity, demonstrating increasing expertise with a wide range of techniques
• Demonstrate flexibility in adapting methods and skills according to evolving project priorities
• Provide independent experimental design and planning
• Be able to analyze and interpret data from different sources and draw relevant conclusions
• Demonstrate knowledge in relevant specialized disciplines
• Be able to present results at internal and external meetings
• Accurately document experiments
• Contribute to writing of reports and manuscripts with increasing responsibility over time
• Work collaboratively across lab functions and train other junior lab staff as needed

Required Skills

Required Experience

• Ph.D. degree in Science is required
• Previous Postdoc training is not required.
• The qualified candidate must have proven experience in one or more of the following areas: genetics, molecular biology, and cell signaling.

Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities

• The ability to work independently and to handle multiple projects and deadlines
• Demonstrated ability to work in an interactive and collaborative team
• Excellent presentation, verbal, and written communication skills
• Possess strong attention to detail, analytical, time management, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Embody the Institute's core values of Commitment, Collaboration, Communication, Community and Compassion