A postdoctoral fellowship position is available in the Davis Laboratory at the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, affiliated with the Department of Neurology and the Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM) at the University of Washington in Seattle, Washington, USA. This position will encompass projects using model organism and human induced pluripotent stem cell modeling elucidating the role of endolysosomal trafficking, lipid metabolism and extracellular vesicles in accelerating neurodegenerative disease progression.

The Davis lab is interested in understanding the cellular mechanisms underlying Parkinson s disease (PD) and other aggregate-prone neurodegenerative diseases in order to identify novel therapeutic targets. To do this we use Drosophila and human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) from patients harboring genetic risk variants for PD. We are currently using Drosophila and human iPSC-derived neuron and astrocyte models of glucocerebrosidase (GBA) deficiency, as mutations in GBA increase risk for developing PD and accelerate disease progression. We are investigating how GBA mutations impair endolysosomal trafficking, and may accelerate propagation of pathogenic proteins in neurons via dysregulation of extracellular vesicles. We are examining how GBA influences both the production of EVs as well as endocytosis and processing of neuronal EVs by recipient astrocytes and neurons. We also collaborate with the Parkinson s Genetic Research Study (PI Dr. Cyrus Zabetian) to translate findings from our fruit fly and in vitro models to PD patients. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to do research in a collaborative intellectual community involving Puget Sound VA Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), UW ISCRM, and UW Department of Neurology. Our lab applies a combination of stem cell biology, neurobiology, genetics, biochemistry and microscopy using Drosophila models and human iPSCs-derived neural and glial cell culture models.

Requirements:

Completed PhD in a biomedical science, have the ability to fulfill responsibilities listed below, and eligibility and willingness to apply for external postdoctoral funding including T32 or F32 NIH training grants or other independent funding sources.

Knowledge/ Skills necessary:

• Strong problem solving skills
• Knowledge of genetics and/or neurobiology
• Ability to design and execute controlled experiments
• Effective communication with internal and external researchers
• Reporting of research findings
• Effective scientific writing

Desirable Experience/Skills:

• Familiarity with Drosophila
• Experience with cell culture, advanced microscopy, and immunoblotting.
• Competence in molecular cloning

How to apply:

Please upload cover letter containing a succinct statement summarizing your previous research experience, future research goals and provide a CV.

Currently, only US Citizens, Permanent Residents, Green Card holders with proper work documents and F-type Visa holders may apply.

SIBCR Benefits

SIBCR Pays 100% (less $90/month) for Employees and 75% of Dependent Premiums per month.

Offered to all employees working 20+ hours per week on a regular basis:

• Medical and Prescription Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance, Short Term Disability and Long Term Disability
• Employee Assistance Program
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with pre-tax and Roth options with Matching Contribution (up to 2.5%) plus Non-Match Contribution of 5%
• Sick Leave - accrues at 1 hour for 20 paid hours
• Vacation Leave - accrues at 1 hour for 20 paid hours
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Other mandated leave such as FMLA and WA PFML
• Voluntary Benefits include AFLAC, Pet Insurance, Voluntary Term Life

No other types of compensation offered at this time.

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy:
The Seattle Institute for Biomedical and Clinical Research does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor protected by federal, state or local law. Click here for more information from EEOC | E-Verify Participant | Immigrant and Employee Rights