Posted Date:
Position Description
A postdoctoral position is available in the Dray laboratory to investigate chromosome structure, genome organization, DNA replication, and genome stability. Our research focuses on understanding how chromosome architecture, including cohesin-mediated organization, telomeres, and centromeres, influences DNA replication, DNA repair, and the maintenance of genomic integrity as a barrier against cancer.
The successful candidate will be responsible for planning, designing, conducting, coordinating, and analyzing research experiments using cellular, molecular, and imaging-based approaches. The position will involve investigating chromosome organization and dynamics, establishing genetically modified cell lines, and characterizing the cellular consequences of perturbations affecting genome stability.
Extensive experience in mammalian cell culture, fluorescence microscopy, and molecular cell biology is essential. The successful candidate must demonstrate a strong understanding of advanced scientific concepts, independent research capabilities, and scientific productivity, as evidenced by at least one first-author, peer-reviewed publication.
Position Requirements
Required Qualifications and Competencies
- Education and research experience: A Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a closely related discipline, with demonstrated experience in experimental cell biology.
- Cell culture and genetic manipulation: Extensive experience in mammalian cell culture, including the maintenance, characterization, and establishment of genetically modified cell lines. Proficiency in gene silencing or gene editing approaches, including shRNA-mediated knockdown and/or CRISPR-Cas9-mediated genome editing.
- Fluorescence microscopy and imaging: Demonstrated expertise in fluorescence and confocal microscopy, immunofluorescence staining, image acquisition, and quantitative image analysis.
- Chromosome analysis and cytogenetics: Hands-on experience in metaphase spread preparation, chromosome visualization, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Experience with chromosome-specific, telomeric, or centromeric probes would be particularly appreciated.
- Protein- protein and protein- nucleic acid interactions: Proficiency in any technique along PLA, ChIP seq, IP-MS and similar approaches would be highly beneficial.
- Flow cytometry: Proficiency in flow cytometry for cell cycle profiling, apoptosis assays, and/or functional analysis of DNA repair using reporter systems.
- Molecular and cellular biology: Proficiency in standard molecular biology techniques, including DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, molecular cloning, Western blotting, and protein analysis.
- Experimental design and data analysis: Demonstrated ability to independently design experiments, establish appropriate controls, troubleshoot protocols, analyze quantitative data, and interpret complex experimental results.
- Research organization and project management: Ability to organize and coordinate multiple research projects, prioritize experimental activities, meet deadlines, and adapt efficiently to emerging research needs.
- Scientific software: Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, ImageJ/Fiji, and other software for microscopy image processing, quantitative analysis, stats, scientific figure preparation, and reference management.
- Scientific communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare scientific manuscripts, present research findings, and communicate effectively with colleagues and collaborators.
- Teamwork and independence: Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research while working effectively within a collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment.
Desirable Qualifications (Not Absolutely Required)
- Chromosome biology and genome organization: Previous research experience in chromosome structure, chromatin organization, cohesin complexes, DNA replication and/or DNA repair is not required but highly desirable
- Sequencing: DNA and RNA library preparation, familiar with Oxford Nanopore technology
- Hybridization techniques: Southern blots and similar
- Large dataset analysis: experience analyzing sequencing data would be viewed very favorably.
- Having clearly defined scientific goals for your career and personal development, which we will help you achieve.
How to Apply
Send your academic CV to dray@uthscsa.edu with the subject "PDA_Cell". This should include a list of lab skills and projects, name of past mentors, and publication(s). You can include the name of 3 references, but letters are not required at the time of application unless you wish to include them.
Applications will be consider as soon as they are received. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit references and to join a brief introduction meeting by Zoom.
All postdoctoral appointments are designated as security sensitive positions. UT Health San Antonio is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. It is our policy to promote and ensure equal employment opportunity for all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.