POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE - MAKARENKOVA LAB - Molecular and Cellular Biology

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POSITION TITLE: Postdoctoral Associate - Aging: Lacrimal Gland Biology

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Makarenkova Lab at Scripps Research is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to join our team and contribute to cutting-edge research on age-related diseases of the eye.

With increased life expectancy, the prevalence of age-related diseases is expected to rise, including dry eye disease, a condition affecting millions of older adults worldwide. Tear dysfunction can lead to irritation, pain, and blurred vision, significantly impacting quality of life. The lacrimal gland (LG), an exocrine tubuloacinar gland, is responsible for secreting the aqueous layer of the tear film. Over a lifetime, the corneal surface and LG are exposed to bacterial and viral infections that can disrupt epithelial cell homeostasis and trigger chronic inflammation. Yet, the precise mechanisms underlying LG aging, and the specific cell populations involved, remain largely unknown.

To address this gap, our lab has performed high-throughput single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) to generate the first comprehensive single-cell atlases of young adult and aged LGs. Using Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting (FACS), we have also isolated and sequenced specific LG epithelial cell populations from young and aged mice, revealing novel cell markers and previously undescribed cell populations.

The successful candidate will:

• Analyze scRNAseq datasets and integrate findings with spatial transcriptomics and bulk RNAseq
• Validate novel markers and cell populations using immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, qRT-PCR, and LG functional assays (secretion, proliferation, inflammatory readouts).
• Design and execute independent subprojects based on experience and interests.
• Present findings at lab meetings, journal clubs, and internal/external conferences

Postdoctoral Associates are appointed positions for the purpose of developing scholarly competence, working under the supervision of a Scripps Research Faculty member. These appointments are normally not renewed beyond a total of five years. Postdoctoral Associates cannot apply for external funding either as a Principal Investigator or Co-Principal Investigator without prior approval from a Departmental Chair. Postdoctoral Associates do not have consulting privileges.

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REQUIREMENTS:

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, cell biology, immunology, bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Some experience with RStudio and Seurat for single-cell data analysis.
• Some experience with cell dissociation protocols and handling primary tissues.
• Willingness to work with mouse colonies, including mouse genotyping.

COMPENSATION: Postdoctoral Associates will be hired following the National Institute of Health and California's exempt salary guidelines, which provide for a starting range of $68,640- $73,230. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Eligibility for retirement plans with employer contribution.
• Full suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more.
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care).
• Free, on-site Counseling Center which provides confidential counseling services to benefits-eligible employees and their family members.
• Free, on-site parking.
• Pet Insurance

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.

EEO Statement:The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status.