POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

Duke Careers • Durham, NC

68d • Onsite

About The Position

Pompe disease (PD), is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by a deficiency of acid alpha-glucosidase (GAA) – a lysosomal enzyme that hydrolyzes glycogen. Recent findings from our laboratory identified the impact of GAA deficiency and glycogen accumulation in alveolar type 1 and type 2 (AT1 and AT2) cells. Specifically, we found that GAA deficiency in PD resulted in engorged lysosomes which significantly disrupted AT1 and AT2 cellular architecture. Lysosomes are an essential component of autophagy which is important for maintaining cellular homeostasis. Building on these novel findings, we are seeking a post-doctoral fellow who will work on a project that assesses the mechanisms by which a lack of GAA results in disrupted alveolar remodeling and repair after lung injury. Specifically, we are looking for a post-doctoral fellow who has expertise in lung inflation and harvesting, lung histology and sectioning, and immunohistochemistry. Some expertise in single-cell RNA sequencing is also preferable.

Requirements

• Holds a PhD or equivalent doctorate (e.g. ScD, MD, DVM). Candidates with non-US degrees may be required to provide proof of degree equivalency.
• Animal handling experience
• Prior experience with lung inflation, lung histology and immunohistochemistry.
• Experience with R and with scRNA sequencing.
• Intellectual curiosity and a growth mindset.

Nice To Haves

• Some expertise in single-cell RNA sequencing is also preferable.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular, cellular, biochemical and immunological analyses.
• Optimize and troubleshoot experimental protocols and equipment.
• Design, execute and document experiments with sufficient detail to understand and repeat by other lab members.
• Update lab members on new developments in commercial reagents and techniques.
• Compile and document results, maintain lab notes, and assist in writing reports and research manuscripts.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees