Postdoctoral Research Associate - Neurology

Position Summary

This is an exciting opportunity to work as a postdoc in the Kummer lab at Washington University School of Medicine running a newly-funded research portfolio. We are a biology and neuroscience laboratory focused on applying cutting-edge techniques to understand the mechanisms of acute brain injury, especially traumatic brain injury (TBI), and its connections to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other forms of neurodegeneration. We are particularly interested in synaptic mechanisms of neural circuit impairment. We work with animal models (mostly mice) and with patients in the hospital, and collaborate with academic and industry partners ensuring a broad-based, growth-oriented experience and a large, diverse field of colleagues. The Kummer lab specializes in techniques including imaging, molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, functional assessments, and immunolabeling. 

The position will involve day-to-day decision making regarding scientific direction and experimental implementation. The applicant will manage projects with independence to accomplish the study’s goals. The decisions made have the potential to positively impact the large number of victims of TBI and neurodegenerative disease by supplying new knowledge about essential elements involved in acute and chronic brain injury. There is furthermore an opportunity to work with human victims of TBI through the PI’s clinical activities in the NeuroICU at Barnes-Jewish Hospital.

For more information on the lab, please visit Home | Terrance Kummer Lab | Washington University in St. Louis (wustl.edu) .

In addition to high-quality research facilities, career and professional development training for postdoctoral researchers is provided through the Career Center, Teaching Center, Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, 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/ .

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Manages their own projects, which should lead to first author publications. Includes designing research experiments and evaluating research findings.
• Develops expertise in imaging, genetics, molecular biology, and immunolabeling.
• 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 with excellent writing skills.
• Maintains conformity with ethical standards in research.
• Maintains compliance with good laboratory practice including the maintenance of adequate research records.
• 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

• Skills and/or experience in the following areas: working with laboratory animals, microscopic imaging, molecular biology, biochemistry, behavioral testing, and basic coding skills in languages pertinent to biological research (R, python, matlab, Julia, etc.).
• Interpersonal skills appropriate to a team-based enterprise.
• Strong work ethic, professionalism, and organizational skills.
• Data management, documentation, quantitative and experimental rigor, and a strong commitment to scientific ethics.
• Hands-on work with mice.
• Willingness to learn new skills and teach others.

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

Please email your resume to Dr. Kummer at [email protected] .

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected]  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.