Career Center

A National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS)-funded Postdoctoral Research Fellow Position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Sebastian Werneburg in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences in the Kellogg Eye Center at the University of Michigan, Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The Werneburg Lab's primary research focuses on understanding how microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain, and immune pathways regulate visual neural circuits. Our lab utilizes various cutting-edge techniques such as super-resolution confocal microscopy, transcriptomics, proteomics, mouse genetics, animal behavior, cell/tissue culture models, and numerous molecular biology techniques to study how microglia and other immune components regulate the development and refinement of synaptic circuits in health and disease. Our primary disease focus includes, but is not limited to, Multiple Sclerosis and related demyelinating pathologies, as well visual system disorders and Alzheimer's disease.

We are seeking a commitment from a highly-motivated individual who desires to spearhead research projects and use multi-disciplinary approaches to identify mechanisms involved in the de- and regeneration of neural circuits in Multiple Sclerosis and related neurodegenerative disorders. In addition, the candidate should show enthusiasm to participate in collaborative efforts with other research groups, work well in a team, and have a strong ability to multitask. Applicants with a background in state-of-the-art neuroscience approaches (e.g., omics-techniques, mouse genetics, super-resolution confocal microscopy, bioinformatics, gene therapeutic applications), neuroimmunology, glial biology, and synaptic or immune signaling pathways are strongly encouraged to apply, although all candidates with a strong background in molecular and cellular neuroscience will be considered.

Interested individuals should reach out to Dr. Sebastian Werneburg at wernebur@umich.edu and submit a cover letter, CV, and names and contact information of three references. 
 

Under the general direction of the Principal Investigator or designee, the Postdoctoral Research Fellow performs a variety of complex research experiments and is responsible for spearheading research projects and actively participate in scientific collaborations.

The successful candidate is expected to:
? Design and perform complex laboratory experiments and conduct in-depth analysis of research experiments
? Report the status of projects and observations to the Principle Investigator 
? Design and execute protocols and experiments, modify protocols as needed, and be responsible for own research project
? Manage laboratory research staff
? Oversee and assist in the training of new laboratory personnel, students, and collaborators
? Assist in writing scientific publications and grants. Review literature
? Comply with all safety and infection control standards
? Perform other duties as required

? Ph.D. degree in Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Cell Biology or equivalent experience
? Ability to perform duties independently
? Strong ability to analyze complex imaging and molecular biology data in a quantitative and objective manner
? Judgment and action skills required to solve commonly encountered problems
? Work well in a team, and have a strong ability to multitask

? Experience working in rodent models, microscopy, histological preparation of tissues, and wet lab techniques including molecular/cellular biology, biochemistry, and 'omics'-approaches is preferred.

? Successful candidates should also have excellent scientific writing and strong oral communication skills. 

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings.  Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally.  Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

About University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

A great university is made so by its faculty and staff, and Michigan is recognized as one of the best universities to work for in the country. The Michigan culture is known for engaging faculty and staff in all facets of the university to create a workplace that is vibrant and stimulating.For two consecutive years, the Chronicle of Higher Education has placed U-M in its "Great Colleges to Work For" survey. In particular, the university earns high marks for strong relations between faculty and administrators, a collaborative system of governance, strong pay and benefits, and a healthy work/life balance.

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