Postdoctoral Associate - Makarenkova LAB - Molecular and Cellular Biology

Overview

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-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and Scripps Research Translational Institute, which merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs impacting human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

POSITION TITLE: Postdoctoral Associate - Aging:
Lacrimal Gland Biology

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Makarenkova Lab at Scripps Research is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to join our team and contribute to cutting-edge research on age-related diseases of the eye.

With increased life expectancy, the prevalence of age-related diseases is expected to rise, including dry eye disease, a condition affecting millions of older adults worldwide. Tear dysfunction can lead to irritation, pain, and blurred vision, significantly impacting quality of life. The lacrimal gland (LG), an exocrine tubuloacinar gland, is responsible for secreting the aqueous layer of the tear film. Over a lifetime, the corneal surface and LG are exposed to bacterial and viral infections that can disrupt epithelial cell homeostasis and trigger chronic inflammation.

Yet, the precise mechanisms underlying LG aging, and the specific cell populations involved, remain largely unknown.

To address this gap, our lab has performed high-throughput single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) to generate the first comprehensive single-cell atlases of young adult and aged LGs. Using Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting (FACS), we have also isolated and sequenced specific LG epithelial cell populations from young and aged mice, revealing novel cell markers and previously undescribed cell populations.

The successful candidate will:

• Analyze scRNAseq datasets and integrate findings with spatial transcriptomics and bulk RNAseq
• Validate novel markers and cell populations using immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, qRT-PCR, and LG functional assays (secretion, proliferation, inflammatory readouts)
• Design and execute independent subprojects based on experience and interests
• Present findings at lab meetings, journal clubs, and internal/external conferences

Postdoctoral Associates are appointed positions for the purpose of developing scholarly competence, working under the supervision of a Scripps Research Faculty member. These appointments are normally not renewed beyond a total of five years. Postdoctoral Associates cannot apply for external funding either as a Principal Investigator or Co-Principal Investigator without prior approval from a Departmental Chair. Postdoctoral Associates do not have consulting privileges.

Make Scripps Research your next step to advance and develop your career.  to learn more about our Postdoctoral Program and Services: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

REQUIREMENTS:

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, cell biology, immunology, bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Some experience with RStudio and Seurat for single-cell data analysis.
• Some experience with cell dissociation protocols and handling primary tissues.
• Willingness to work with mouse colonies, including mouse genotyping.

COMPENSATION
:
Postdoctoral Associates will be hired following the National Institute of Health and California s exempt salary guidelines, which provide for a starting range of $70,304- $75,353. Consideration will be given to experience that…