Position Summary

The Williams Lab is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to study neuronal regeneration and preservation in retinal mouse models of injury and disease. This project will examine how retinal circuits are altered by damage to the optic nerve and how these changes impact retinal ganglion cell survival and axon regeneration. Responsibilities of the researcher will include but are not limited to: determination of molecular pathways that activate retinal cells in response to ganglion cell axon damage; development of pharmacological or genetic inhibition of retinal cell activation after optic nerve damage; application of these approaches to a glaucoma model of retinal degeneration; data collection and analysis; preparation of presentations and manuscripts.

The Williams lab is a newly established research group at the Washington University School of 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 Washington University School of Medicine. 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.

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/ .

For more information about the lab, please visit https://sites.wustl.edu/williams/home/ .

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

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

• Manages their own project, which should lead to a first author publication.
• Develops expertise in isolation and transcriptomic analysis of retinal neurons, surgical approaches to optic nerve injury and glaucoma in mice, 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.
• Designs research experiments.
• Evaluates research findings and reports results.
• Maintains conscientious discharge of their 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.
• Maintains collegial conduct towards co-trainees, staff members and members of the research group.
• Adheres 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.

Required Qualifications

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

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in molecular and cellular neurobiology.
• Demonstrated ability to implement laboratory procedures, conduct research and records findings.

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.

Applicant Special Instructions

Interested candidates should send a CV and cover letter to Dr. Philip Williams: prwillia@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.