Post-Doctoral Fellow, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy - School of Medicine / Neurology

Post-Doctoral Fellow - Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, School of Medicine / Neurology

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine is a premier academic medical center located in the heart of Richmond. Accounting for almost half of VCU’s sponsored research, the School of Medicine is internationally recognized for patient care and education. VCU School of Medicine comprises 18 clinical departments, eight basic health science departments, and 11 affiliated institutes and centers, and provides preeminent education to physicians and scientists in order to improve the quality of healthcare for humanity.

Summary

AT VCU, we Make It Real through learning, research, creativity, service and discovery - the hallmarks
of the VCU experience. A premier, urban, public research university nationally recognized as one of
the best employers for diversity, VCU is a great place to work. It’s a place of opportunity, where your
success is supported and your career can thrive. VCU offers employees a generous leave package,
career paths for advancement, competitive pay, and an opportunity to do mission-driven work.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is a progressive and debilitating disease. There is growing interest in
the role of the neuronal-glial interaction and on the individual role of glial cells on neuronal
development. These interactions and individual cell types may constitute potential treatment targets.
The overall aim of our laboratory is to dissect the role of glial cells on neuronal development and the
effect of the environment on neuronal development and vice versa. The project will focus in studies
of advanced cell culture systems, molecular physiology including opportunities to train in patch-clamp,
and studies of animal models.

Essential Qualifications

We are looking for an ambitious, enthusiastic and highly motivated post-doctoral research associate
with strong skills in molecular and cellular biology. The successful candidate will use molecular/cell development
biology methods to understand how dystrophin in the brain affects neuronal and glial
cell development and function. Candidates must have a PhD in Neurobiology, Biology or Biochemistry.
Other requirements include strong expertise in primary neuronal and glial cell cultures, immune-histochemistry,
protein quantification and in-vivo assays. Scientifically skilled as shown by scientific
publications and presentations at national and international conferences. Must be fluent in spoken
and written English. It is essential that the applicant is able to work independently to formulate and
design experiments, but good collaboration skills and being a team player are also very important.
Experience of working with cultured astrocytes and neurons, as well as working with animal models
for neurodegenerative diseases is qualifying

Preferred Qualifications

Immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry, microscopy techniques, western blot, and animal
handling experience is of advantage.

The School of Medicine continuously strives for our workplace and learning environment to reflect the demographic and social milieu of the communities we serve. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

This is a restricted position with no set end date; and continued employment is dependent upon project need, availability of funding, and performance.

Position will remain open until filled with a priority application date of March 14, 2022