Postdoctoral Associate - Liver Diseases HCC, MASH, and ALD 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:

Research in the Brenner lab (https://sbpdiscovery.org/scientists/david-a-brenner-md/) studies a wide variety of liver diseases, such as liver fibrosis, HCC and Metabolic dysfunction associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and Alcohol associated liver disease (ALD). Using both in vivo mouse models as well as primary human cells, the overarching goal of the lab is to understand the cell-cell interaction and the basic mechanisms of disease development in order to identify novel therapeutic approaches.

A Postdoctoral Fellow position is available to study:

• The mechanism of liver fibrosis development in the context of Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
• Understand the mechanism of activation of hepatic stellate cells in MASH.

Under limited direction, the Postdoctoral fellow will plan and manage all aspects of a research project including research design, experimentation, funding acquisition and publication.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Research design and planning
• Experimentation and trouble-shooting
• Data collection, analysis and interpretation
• Data recording and compliance
• Management of collaborations
• Results summarization
• Preparation of grants and manuscripts

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. in biomedical sciences
• Experience with mammalian cell culture, molecular biology techniques, lentiviral production, overexpression and knock-down or knock-out genes in vitro
• Expertise in mouse handling and in vivo techniques such as i.v., IP, oral gavage, sub-cutaneous injection is required
• Experience in harvesting and processing various mouse tissues in required.
• Isolation of various primary cell types from the liver in preferable
• Experience with immunohistochemistry and microscopy is required
• Ability to perform basic bioinformatics analysis of bulk or single cell RNAseq data is preferable.

Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to conduct and publish research projects
• Work independently as well as in a team environment
• Be responsible and have strong time management skills
• Able to analyze and resolve issues of high/moderate complexity
• Possess strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Demonstrate professional communication and interpersonal skills
• Professional proficiency in Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator, Prism, ImageJ
• Embody the Institute's core values of Commitment, Collaboration, Communication, Community and Compassion

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

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 position is $70,000 to $ 75,000 commensurate with relevant experience.

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.

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