Postdoctoral Research Associate - Ophthalmology

Position Summary

This project will examine the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation of the central visual pathway from the retinal specializations to the brain projections. The appointee will form part of a team whose primary research focus is on retinal development.

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 researchers.

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.

The initial contract is up to two years.

• For more information about the lab, please visit sites.wustl.edu/yoshimatsulab/home/ .
• For more information about the department, please visit ophthalmology.wustl.edu/ .
• 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

• Conducts high-quality research and produces relevant publications in front-line journals.
• Zebrafish husbandry (maintenance and management of zebrafish colonies).
• Immunostaining and in situ hybridization.
• Advanced imaging and analysis of data (two-photon and confocal microscopy and transformation), DNA cloning (restriction digests, gel extraction of DNA, ligation including in plasmids and BACs).
• Maintains an up-to-date lab book.
• Liaises with collaborators.
• Assists with the supervision and teaching of M.S. and Ph.D. students within the department as requested. Ensures students are working competently and safely.
• Assures professional quality data from RNA sequencing samples and interpreting/outsourcing RNA collaborators.
• Presents and collates data for presentations.
• Writes and updates standard operational procedures and risk assessments as required.
• Maintains own continuing professional development, including participation in staff development and reviews procedures in accordance with WUSTL guidelines.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in neuroscience, cell/molecular/developmental biology, computational biology, or another related discipline.
• Theoretical understanding of methodologies for daily practical techniques and the ability to communicate this knowledge effectively to colleagues.
• Experience in coding in at least one of the following software: Matlab, Python, IGOR Pro, or R.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Highly self-motivated with the ability to work independently while managing time and work to meet strict deadlines.

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.

External Applicant Instructions

When you are ready to apply, creating an account only takes a minute. Your account creates a candidate home page which we will use to communicate with you and allows you to apply for jobs and view your application statuses. The first page of the application offers two “Quick Apply” options. Quick Apply allows you to either use a previous application or create a new application using a resume to populate the work experience and education sections of your job application. If using a resume to populate your application, check to ensure the application fields populated accurately. You may skip the “Quick Apply” page by clicking “Next” at the bottom of the page. Documents may be uploaded in the My Experience section of the application. You also have the option to apply with a LinkedIn feature, which allows you to apply by using your LinkedIn profile to populate some of the job application fields.

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.