JOB SUMMARY:

The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology has a full time opening for a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Division of Reproductive Sciences. The Jansson/Powell group pursues translational research exploring the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate placental function in normal pregnancy and in pregnancy complications and to investigate the role of the placenta in determining fetal growth and long-term health. The research group employs physiological, molecular and translational approaches, and utilizes a wide variety of model systems including primary human trophoblast cells and explants, human placental tissue, mice, rats, and guinea-pigs. The research group is now soliciting applications for a postdoctoral fellowship involving testing the novel and innovative idea that the poor outcomes in infants born prematurely are because they are deprived of factors secreted by the placenta and that administration of some of these proteins to premature guinea-pig pups improves outcomes. Preliminary data shows that administration of 5 candidate placental proteins in prematurely delivered guinea-pig pups had a remarkable positive effect, including reducing mortality from 33% in the control group to 0% in the intervention group. The project is now funded by an NIH R01 award until 2029. The project involves the establishment of a guinea-pig neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and when fully established, our campus will be the only place in the world where this model is available, offering us a competitive advantage in prematurity research. Successful applicants will need to demonstrate a strong work ethic, to have the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, to exhibit excellent skills in scientific writing, and to display meticulous, detail-oriented technical skills and record-keeping.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

• A minimum of a PhD in relevant scientific area such as Physiology, Molecular Biology and Cell Biology
• A working knowledge of computer software for data analysis and presentation.
• Experience with animal modes

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Background in perinatal biology

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• The applicant must have documented training and experience in integrative physiology and/or molecular/cell biology and animal models. The applicant should be motivated, maintain methodic and careful work practices, have interest in learning new skills and knowledge, have excellent communication skills, be able to have flexible work schedule as required for completion of study goals and enjoy teamwork. Moreover, the successful applicant is expected to have an ability to work independently, a strong work ethic and a commitment to becoming an independent scientist with excellent skills in scientific writing