Essential Functions: Postdoctoral research associate positions are available immediately to work in the Pilsner lab on three NIH-funded projects on the role of preconception environmental exposures on sperm epigenetics and early-life development that span human cohort studies and animal models. Projects comprise of multiple population-based studies including the Sperm Environmental Epigenetics and Development Study (SEEDS), which has been enrolling couples seeking in vitro fertilization (IVF) to understand the associations between preconception paternal exposures to endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs), such as phthalates, sperm epigenetics, and embryo development. In parallel to our human studies, we are examining embryonic inheritance of sperm epigenetics after preconception environmental exposures in male mice. Lastly, we are investigating the role of the environment on sncRNA expression of extracellular vesicles from human seminal plasma. Together, these projects utilize a variety of locus-specific and next-generation techniques such as RNA-seq, RRBS, and WGBS, as well as EPIC arrays in human and mouse sperm and mouse embryos. Opportunities for postdoc-driven independent research are also possible. The title of Postdoctoral Scholar applies to those who are paid a salary by WSU. Their salary is usually charged to a grant or contract secured by their faculty mentor. This position is time-limited and typically expires after completing6 years of research training.The title of Postdoctoral Fellow applies to scholars who receive financial support in the form of a fellowship or stipend, usually from an outside agency, either directly or distributed through WSU on behalf of the sponsor. Typically, fellows are responsible for applying for a fellowship award. Based on the year of the scholar/fellow, this distribution will change. Earlier in their career they will directly conduct research, whereas later, as they become ready to apply for other positions or transition away from postdoc status, they focus on papers, grants etc. The functions listed in the table below are suggestions and would be best categorized and assigned by the mentor/sponsor, in close collaboration with their postdoc, as they consider and complete the Individual Development plan that each postdoc at WSU is expected to complete and revise each year. Perform scientific techniques or research protocols. Assist the Principal Investigator in designing and performing protocols. Design and perform experiments. Collect and log research data. Participate in implementing research objectives, ensuring compliance with all legal, regulatory and protocol guidelines. Assist other lab members with experiments as required. May mentor research assistants and students.With the assistance of the mentor, find and write research grants with the goal of obtaining additional research grant funding. Responsibilities may also include coordinating correspondence with applicants and grantees, acknowledging receipts of proposals, and maintaining a system to track proposals. Evaluate and perform preliminary analysis of the data using graphs, charts or tables to highlight the key points of the research results collected in accordance with the research protocols as stipulated.Prepare and present presentations regarding research project results for professional, scientific and academic conferences. Summarize and organize data results for submittal to academic and scholarly, peer-reviewed journals. Write scientific manuscripts and other documents for publication. Fact-check, proofread, and edit research documents to ensure accuracy.Maintain the laboratory work areas including routine maintenance on laboratory equipment as required. Order and organize required research supplies and records. Maintain cleanliness and organization of work station. Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications: Education Doctorate degreeRequires advanced knowledge in a field of science or learning, predominantly intellectual in character. This knowledge is acquired by a prolonged course of specialized intellectual instruction. Experience Intermediate (3 to 4 years job-related experience)Job related experience can include doctorate training. Experience performing basic research techniques, preferred. Must have distinguished themselves in research. Prior recipient of funding for research based on individual achievements.Knowledge, Skills and AbilitiesAbility to work independently. Ability to secure grants and funding for research. Ability to collect, analyze, summarize and interpret research findings in reports and communicate results to the field. Knowledge of and experience with current scientific integrity principles. Excellent time management and organization skills. Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work with others in a collaborative environment. Microsoft office software skills.
Founded in 1868, Wayne State University is a nationally recognized metropolitan research institution offering more than 400 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 32,000 students. Wayne State?s main campus in Midtown Detroit comprises 100 buildings over nearly 200 acres; its five extension centers offer higher education to people throughout Southeast Michigan. Wayne State is dedicated to preparing students to excel by combining the academic excellence of a major research university with the practical experience of an institution that by its history, location and diversity represents a microcosm of the world we live in. Reflecting its location and the excellent international reputation of its graduate schools, particularly in the sciences, Wayne State boasts the most diverse student body among Michigan?s public universities. Its students represent 49 U.S. states and more than 60 countries.
