Postdoctoral Associate Jobs in South Carolina

INTRODUCTION

We are seeking highly motivated individuals for a Postdoctoral Fellow position to study neurovascular function and neuroinflammation in projects that span both basic and translational research. Our recently NIH-funded research focuses on the role of pericytes in neurovascular dysfunction associated with Alzheimer’s disease and sepsis. Specifically, we investigate how pericyte-mediated vascular dysfunction contributes to altered blood-brain barrier permeability and cerebral blood flow. A reduction in cerebral blood flow is a significant factor in the development of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Our work aims to deepen the mechanistic understanding of pericyte function while also identifying clinically relevant therapeutic strategies. We employ a wide range of complementary approaches, including molecular and cellular biology, advanced imaging technologies, and genetically modified mouse models. Our recently acquired twophoton microscope enhances our ability to conduct cutting-edge in vivo imaging. We are actively developing multiple projects to address critical gaps in the neurovascular research field, supported by NIH R35 and R01 funding. The postdoctoral fellow will be supervised by Dr. Hongkuan Fan, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, who will provide training and mentorship in neurovascular and neuroinflammation research.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead an independent project related to neurovascular function in sepsis or Alzheimer’s disease (35%)
• Perform complex experiments and data analysis; manage animal surgeries and breeding colonies (35%)
• Operate and maintain lab equipment (e.g., optical, mechanical, and electrical devices); assist with related lab projects as needed (15%)
• Conduct literature reviews, maintain detailed lab notebooks, and contribute to manuscript preparation (15%)

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

Ph.D. and/or M.D. in neuroscience, immunology, vascular biology, or a related discipline. Strong communication and organizational skills. Prior experience with small animal surgery and two-photon imaging is highly preferred.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Ph.D. in biology, neuroscience, immunology, vascular biology, or a related field. Experience with in vivo imaging (two-photon microscopy) and mouse surgical techniques is highly desirable.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in a relevant scientific field.

ADDITIONAL JOB DESCRIPTION

Physical Requirements: (Note: The following descriptions are applicable to this section: Continuous - 6-8 hours per shift; Frequent - 2-6 hours per shift; Infrequent - 0-2 hours per shift)

• Ability to perform job functions in an upright position. (Continuous)
• Ability to perform job functions in a seated position. (Continuous)
• Ability to perform job functions while walking/mobile. (Frequent)
• Ability to climb stairs. (Infrequent)
• Ability to work indoors. (Continuous)
• Ability to work in all cold temperature extremes, i.e. spot coolers. (Frequent)
• Ability to bend at the waist. (Frequent)
• Ability to twist at the waist. (Frequent)
• Ability to perform 'pinching' operations. (Continuous)
• Ability to fully use both hands/arms. (Continuous)
• Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands/wrists/elbows and shoulders. (Continuous)
• Ability to fully use both legs. (Continuous)
• Ability to reach in all directions. (Continuous)
• Possess good finger dexterity. (Continuous)
• Ability to maintain tactile sensory functions. (Continuous)
• Ability to maintain good olfactory sensory function. (Continuous)
• Ability to lift and carry 15 lbs., unassisted. (Frequent)
• Ability to lift objects, up to 15 lbs., from floor level to height of 72 inches, unassisted. (Frequent)
• Ability to lower objects, up to 15 lbs., from height of 72 inches to floor level, unassisted. (Frequent)
• Ability to push/pull objects, up to 15 lbs., unassisted. (Infrequent)
• Ability to lift and carry objects up to 15 lbs. a distance of five (5) floors and to outlying buildings. (Frequent)
• Ability to maintain 20/40 vision, corrected. (Continuous)
• Ability to see and recognize objects close at hand. (Continuous)
• Ability to see and recognize objects at a distance. (Continuous)
• Ability to match or discriminate between colors. (Continuous)
• Ability to determine distance/relationship between objects; depth perception. (Continuous)
• Good peripheral vision capabilities. (Continuous)
• Ability to maintain hearing acuity, with correction. (Continuous)
• Ability to perform gross motor functions with frequent fine motor movements. (Continuous)
• Ability to be qualified physically (by medical personnel) for respirator use, initially and annually.
• Ability to work alone in isolated areas, such as darkrooms. (Frequent)

Additional New Requirements: Ability to obtain and maintain a valid drivers license. Computer literacy. Ability to work rotating shifts as required. Ability to work overtime as required. Ability to learn and use new processes, tools and equipment as required.

If you like working with energetic enthusiastic individuals, you will enjoy your career with us!

The Medical University of South Carolina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. MUSC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, age, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state laws and/or federal regulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment based upon applicable qualifications, merit and business need.

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LOCATION

Charleston, South Carolina