Postdoctoral Research Associate - Pediatrics

Updated: about 2 years ago
Location: Medical Lake, WASHINGTON
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: The position may have been removed or expired!

Job Description

Position Summary

The Rubenstein Lab is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work projects related to the mechanisms of action of molecular chaperones on the biogenesis of proteins and ion channels relevant to pediatric pulmonary diseases and their complications.

The postdoctoral researcher will have the opportunity to work with a dynamic group within a developing research center focused on pediatric pulmonary biology. 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 project, which should lead to first author and additional collaborative publications.
  • Develops expertise in the ability investigate the regulation of trafficking and function of proteins that are relevant to pediatric pulmonary diseases and their complications, including but not limited to epithelial ion channels relevant to Cystic Fibrosis as a foundation for a future investigative career.
  • 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 development of excellent writing skills.
  • Assists in the design of research experiments.
  • Investigates the regulation of trafficking and function of proteins that are relevant to pediatric pulmonary diseases and their complications, including but not limited to epithelial ion channels relevant to Cystic Fibrosis.
  • Evaluates research findings and assists in the reporting of the results.
  • Conscientious discharge of their research responsibilities.
  • Maintains conformity with ethical standards in research.
  • Maintains compliance with good laboratory practice, including the maintenance of adequate research records.
  • Engage in open and timely discussion with their mentor regarding possession or distribution of material, reagents, or records belonging to their laboratory and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques privately or in publications.
  • 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

  • Applicants with a doctoral degree in a relevant field, such as biochemistry, cellular and/or molecular biology, physiology or pharmacology and a strong background in techniques relevant to these fields.
  • Experience with advanced imaging techniques or proteomic techniques. 
  • Demonstrated ability to implement laboratory procedures, conduct research and records findings.

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

Applicants should forward their C.V. and three references to Dr. Ron Rubenstein, M.D., Ph.D., at [email protected] .


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 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to an individual’s sex, race, color, religion, age, disability status, protected veteran status, national or ethnic origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation. Women, minorities, protected veterans and the disabled are strongly encouraged to apply.


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.

Job Description

Position Summary

The Rubenstein Lab is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work projects related to the mechanisms of action of molecular chaperones on the biogenesis of proteins and ion channels relevant to pediatric pulmonary diseases and their complications.

The postdoctoral researcher will have the opportunity to work with a dynamic group within a developing research center focused on pediatric pulmonary biology. 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 project, which should lead to first author and additional collaborative publications.
  • Develops expertise in the ability investigate the regulation of trafficking and function of proteins that are relevant to pediatric pulmonary diseases and their complications, including but not limited to epithelial ion channels relevant to Cystic Fibrosis as a foundation for a future investigative career.
  • 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 development of excellent writing skills.
  • Assists in the design of research experiments.
  • Investigates the regulation of trafficking and function of proteins that are relevant to pediatric pulmonary diseases and their complications, including but not limited to epithelial ion channels relevant to Cystic Fibrosis.
  • Evaluates research findings and assists in the reporting of the results.
  • Conscientious discharge of their research responsibilities.
  • Maintains conformity with ethical standards in research.
  • Maintains compliance with good laboratory practice, including the maintenance of adequate research records.
  • Engage in open and timely discussion with their mentor regarding possession or distribution of material, reagents, or records belonging to their laboratory and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques privately or in publications.
  • 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

  • Applicants with a doctoral degree in a relevant field, such as biochemistry, cellular and/or molecular biology, physiology or pharmacology and a strong background in techniques relevant to these fields.
  • Experience with advanced imaging techniques or proteomic techniques. 
  • Demonstrated ability to implement laboratory procedures, conduct research and records findings.

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

Applicants should forward their C.V. and three references to Dr. Ron Rubenstein, M.D., Ph.D., at [email protected] .


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 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to an individual’s sex, race, color, religion, age, disability status, protected veteran status, national or ethnic origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation. Women, minorities, protected veterans and the disabled are strongly encouraged to apply.


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.


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