General Description

This position is for a highly motivated postdoctoral research fellow to work on an exciting project in tumor biology and tissue engineering at Johns Hopkins University at Baltimore, Maryland under PI, Dr. Mostafa Borahay, MD, PhD. Work includes an exciting project examining statins as a new treatment for uterine leiomyomas, the most common tumor of female reproductive system. It also includes building a model for uterus with the three cellular layers, muscle, stroma and epithelium using tissue engineering. Understanding the underlying pathogenesis of the tumor is an important goal. Johns Hopkins University, the institution #1 in NIH funding for more than 30 years. The lab environment provides an exceptional opportunity for state-of-the-art research for an ambitious fellow.

The work will include cellular and extracellular 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.

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.

Strong publication track record as first author in reputable journals carries high weight in the selection process. Prior successful funding during doctoral work is a plus.

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.

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 is a requirement. Candidates with an MD degree and strong experience and publication record in molecular biology can be considered.

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.

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

Application Instructions

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

Women and Minorities are highly encouraged to apply.