General Description

This position is for a highly motivated postdoctoral research fellow to work on an exciting project in reproductive science at Johns Hopkins University at Baltimore, MD. The PI is Dr. Mostafa Borahay, MD, PhD and the project includes building a model for uterus with the three cellular layers, muscle, stroma and epithelium using bioengineering. In addition, the fellow will work on an exciting ongoing project examining statins as a new treatment for uterine leiomyomas, the most common tumor of female reproductive system. Understanding the underlying pathogenesis of the tumor is another goal. Johns Hopkins University, the institution #1 in NIH funding for more than 30 years, provide an outstanding environment for state-of-the-art research for an ambitious fellow.

The work will include cellular and extracellular matrix experiments of cell cultures (both conventional and 3D) from primary & immortalized cells. It will also include tissues obtained from patients and animal models. In addition to standard cell culture, molecular biology, and histologic techniques, work will include experiments on stem cells and epigenetics.

Work is funded by NIH grant and candidates for this position are expected to conduct research work in the current grant and preparation to apply for NIH funding.

The fellow is expected to be self-motivated, organized, and team player.

Responsibilities:

• Critically review available literature and design research work accordingly.
• Plans, conducts, and troubleshoots experiments.
• Performs data analysis, prepares graphical representation of data, prepares manuscripts for publication in peer reviewed scientific journals, assists in the preparation of scientific reports for funded projects, presents research data at in-house meetings and at National and International scientific conferences.
• Participates in preparation of applications for funding.
• Participates on scientific collaborations both within and outside the institution as discussed with the PI.
• Adopts technologies and protocols currently used in the lab and be able to research, find, and learn additional ones necessary for the work
• Works as a team member with other faculty members, clinical research team, fellows, residents, and students.
• Attends training and safety classes required by JHU
• Completes other projects and duties as assigned.
• Accurately documents experiments and results and keeps a detailed laboratory note.
• Possesses good oral and written communication skills
• Able to prioritize workload and manage multiple projects effectively.

Qualifications

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of complex scientific procedures and techniques; knowledge and practical experience in biophysical techniques, fundamental molecular and cellular biology and familiarity with biochemistry and cell culture, proliferation, cell death, protein science, Western Blotting, flow cytometry, RNA, DNA, sequencing, epigenetic (DNA methylation and histone modification) techniques. Candidate is expected to learn new techniques as necessary.

Candidate is expected to demonstrate successful publication of doctoral work in reputable journals. Prior successful funding during doctoral work is a plus.

Training and Career Development plan

This postdoctoral research fellowship program is designed to prepare the fellow for independent academic career in reproductive research. Focus will be scientific productivity demonstrated by innovative research, publication in high impact journals and successful extramural funding. Fellow is expected to transition in few years into an independent faculty role.

Education: Ph.D. in Cell Biology or Molecular Biology

Work Environment: Laboratory environment; requires working with human and animal cells/cell lines, blood, and or bodily fluids

Supervisory Responsibilities/Controls: May provide guidance to laboratory staff and train junior staff members.

Application Instructions

Department/Division: Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics. Division of Reproductive Science and Women's Health Research.

Women and Minorities are highly encouraged to apply. Johns Hopkins University is an equal opportunity employer.

To apply: Send CV including references and a cover letter/personal statement to PI: Mostafa Borahay, MD, PhD. Email: mboraha1@jhmi.edu