Postdoctoral Associate - Neurological and Neuromuscular Disease at Sanford Burnham Prebys in San Diego, California

Job Description:

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.

The duties and responsibilities contained in the job description are intended to be examples of the accountabilities for which the person in the position will demonstrate competency through performance. The job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Duties and responsibilities are subject to change and other duties may be assigned as necessary.

Position Summary:

The position is at the Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute in Dr. Anne Bang's lab in the Prebys Center, which is a state-of-the-art drug screening facility. The position will be initially available for one year, with renewal based on performance. Dr. Anne Bang leads efforts at the Conrad Prebys Center for Chemical Genomics to develop patient cell specific and human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-based disease models for drug screening and drug target identification. Her research program is primarily focused on neurological and neuromuscular disease, with the aim of designing human cell-based models and assays that reflect higher order cellular functions and recapitulate disease phenotypes, yet have the throughput and reproducibility required for drug discovery.?

We are seeking a post-doctoral trainee to work on an exciting project using hiPSC to model the genetic basis of schizophrenia and autism, with opportunities for professional growth, multi-institutional and multi-disciplinary collaboration, and pathways to independence.

The successful candidate will be primarily responsible for conducting research related to developing patient-specific, cell-based models for neurological disease to screen for drugs, validate new targets and chemical molecules, and probe underlying cellular and molecular processes. The project will focus on the development of models representing neurological disease phenotypes using patient specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), and will utilize high throughput drug screening technologies.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate knowledge and ability to learn to advance projects
• Generate hypotheses, design experiments, interpret data, trouble shoot and optimize experiments
• Be able to analyze and interpret data from different sources and draw relevant conclusions
• Be able to present results at internal and external meetings
• Accurately document experiments
• Contribute to the writing of reports and manuscripts with increasing responsibility over time
• Work collaboratively across lab functions and train other junior lab staff as needed
• Perform other related tasks, duties and responsibilities as required, assigned or directed.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: PhD in Biomedical Sciences or Biology

Experience:

• This position requires an M.D. or Ph.D., with preference for new graduates or for postdocs with 3 or fewer years of experience.

• The qualified applicant must have proven experience in one or more of the following areas: cell biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, neurobiology, electrophysiology. Research experience working on neuropsychiatric or neurodegenerative diseases would be considered an advantage.

Certifications, Licenses, etc: None

Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities:

• Have strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Excellent data presentation, verbal, and written communication skills
• Possess strong attention to detail, analytical, time management, and interpersonal skills
• The ability to work independently, and simultaneously handle multiple projects.
• Demonstrated ability to work in an interactive team.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Direct: None

Work Environment:

Laboratories are specialized workplaces where scientific research, experiments, and testing occur. The work environment in laboratories can vary widely depending on the type of lab (e.g., medical, research, clinical, environmental, or industrial) and the specific job role. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

The laboratory is a controlled environment designed to support various scientific activities. It is equipped with specialized tools and equipment, including but not limited to microscopes, centrifuges, and incubators, ensuring precision and safety during experiments. The space adheres to strict safety protocols, with personal protective equipment (PPE) provided and mandatory for all personnel.

The atmosphere is typically collaborative, fostering teamwork and communication among researchers. Workstations are organized for efficiency, with designated areas for specific tasks such as sample preparation, analysis, and data management. The laboratory maintains a clean and orderly space, emphasizing adherence to hygiene and safety standards.

Regular training sessions and meetings are conducted to keep staff updated on best practices and new technologies. Overall, the laboratory environment is dynamic, requiring adaptability and attention to detail, with a strong focus on innovation and research excellence. Here's an overview of the work environment:

Physical Setting

• Controlled Conditions: Labs are often temperature-controlled and well-ventilated to maintain optimal experimental conditions.
• Cleanliness: Workspaces are kept sterile or clean, especially in clinical and pharmaceutical labs.
• Specialized Equipment: Features advanced tools such as centrifuges, chromatography systems, and spectrometers.

Safety Measures

• Protective Gear: Lab coats, gloves, goggles, and sometimes full-body protective suits are standard.
• Hazard Management: Many labs handle hazardous chemicals, biological agents, or radioactive materials, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols.

Noise Levels

• Can vary from quiet (e.g., in research labs) to moderately noisy (e.g., in industrial testing labs).

Schedule and Workload

• Hours: Typically regular work hours, but extended hours or shift work may be required in clinical or industrial labs.
• Pace: Work can be steady but may become fast-paced during critical experiments or project deadlines.

Physical Requirements:

Working in a laboratory involves specific physical capabilities, including:

• Standing and Walking: Ability to stand for extended periods and move around the facility to attend to animal needs and maintenance.
• Lifting and Carrying: Capability to lift and carry equipment, food supplies, and animal enclosures, typically up to 40 pounds, with proper lifting techniques.
• Manual Dexterity: Proficiency in handling small animals and using various tools and equipment with precision.
• Repetitive Motions: Comfort with repetitive tasks, such as feeding, cleaning, and monitoring animals.
• Bending and Stooping: Flexibility to reach into enclosures, clean habitats, and conduct health checks on animals at various heights.

Visual Acuity: Ability to observe animal behavior and health, distinguishing subtle changes that may indicate issues.

Compensation:

The Expected Hiring Range for this role is from $70,000 - $75,000 annually.

Sanford Burnham Prebys celebrates the rich diversity of our scientists, students and staff, who hail from more than 30 countries. Our diverse and inclusive environment catalyzes innovation and fuels discovery, enhancing the value and impact of our research.

We welcome talented individuals of all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, military or veteran status. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

For additional information about your rights as an applicant, click HERE.

As part of this commitment, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact our HR Partners at 858 646 3100 Ext 5127 or via e-mail at accomodations@sbpdiscovery.org.

Sanford Burnham Prebys

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