SBP is a preeminent, independent biomedical research institute dedicated to understanding human biology and disease, and advancing scientific discoveries to profoundly impact human health. For over 40 years, our research has produced breakthroughs in cancer, neuroscience, immunology and children’s diseases, and is anchored by our NCI-designated cancer center and advanced drug discovery capabilities.

The Rolf Bodmer laboratory group has a POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE opening.  The lab is working on the discovery and modeling of genetic pathways involved in heart development and establishment of heart function in the genetic model organism Drosophila, in parallel with a lab working on similar efforts in human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, with the aim is to build genetic models of congenital heart disease (CHD), as well as other heart diseases. They are partnered with clinicians and human geneticists to test candidate genes for CHDs to provide tangible evidence for the functional role of these genes and to develop genetic frameworks in which potential CHD genes are embedded.

The projects will entail discovery and in-depth analysis of genetic pathways involved in heart development and establishment of heart function and contractility in the genetic model organism Drosophila, using forward and reverse genetic approaches, including evaluation of candidate genes emanating from heart disease patients’ genomics information. The aim is to build genetic models of various heart diseases. The Postdoc Associate is expected to learn and perform physiological, biochemical and genetic experiments on the Drosophila heart (including microdissection, imaging and sophisticated genetic manipulations). Classic genetic experiments (crosses, combinations) and transgenic manipulations (including CRISPR/Cas) will be employed to study the development, metabolism and functional properties of the Drosophila heart with the aim to dissect and understand the molecular pathways that build the heart and maintain its function.  Computational and bioinformatics analysis also plays a big part in this project.

TO APPLY:  Interested candidates should apply online to the SBP career site by submitting one PDF document with a cover letter, CV, references and list of any publications or accomplishments. 

Primary Responsibilities

• Independently design and perform experiments and procedures with high degree of complexity, demonstrating increasing expertise with a wide range of techniques
• Demonstrate flexibility in adapting methods and skills according to evolving project priorities
• Provide independent experimental design and planning
• Be able to analyze and interpret data from different sources and draw relevant conclusions
• Demonstrate knowledge in relevant specialized disciplines
• Be able to present results at internal and external meetings
• Accurately document experiments
• Contribute to writing of reports and manuscripts with increasing responsibility over time
• Work collaboratively across lab functions and train other junior lab staff as needed

Required Skills Required Experience

• Ph.D. degree in cell/molecular biology or similar field is required
• The candidate is expected to have solid experimental and academic background in molecular biology and genetics, as well as in development and organ physiology and metabolism using cells and model organisms

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• The ability to work independently and to handle multiple projects and deadlines
• Demonstrated ability to work in an interactive and collaborative team
• Excellent presentation, verbal, and written communication skills
• Possess strong attention to detail, analytical, time management, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Embody the Institute's core values of Commitment, Collaboration, Communication, Community and Compassion

Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute is an Equal Opportunity employer – M/F/Veteran/Disability – committed to the hiring, advancement and fair treatment of all individuals. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected status as designated by federal, state or local law.  For additional information about your rights as an applicant, click HERE.

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