Postdoctoral Researcher (McKenney Lab)

Postdoctoral Position in Alzheimer's Disease and Tau Biology

The Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of California, Davis invites applications for one Postdoctoral Researcher in cell biology and neurodegeneration research.

A postdoctoral scholar position is available immediately in the lab of Dr. Richard McKenney in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at UC Davis. The successful candidate will lead independent research projects focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms of tau protein dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies. The position will utilize state-of-the-art single-molecule imaging, biochemical reconstitution, and cell-based assays as major approaches to investigate how pathological tau phosphorylation patterns disrupt normal tau-microtubule interactions and promote tau aggregation.

Projects will entail, but not be limited to:

* Single-molecule fluorescence microscopy of tau dynamics on microtubules

* Biochemical reconstitution of tau-microtubule interactions using purified components

* Generation and characterization of phosphorylated tau variants

* Cell-based assays using authentic Alzheimer's disease brain-derived tau filaments

* Quantitative image analysis and biophysical modeling

This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface of basic cell biology and translational Alzheimer's research, with direct access to patient-derived samples through collaboration with the UC Davis Alzheimers Disease Research Center.

Responsibilities

Research (90%)

* Design and carry out experiments using techniques including protein expression and purification, single-molecule fluorescence microscopy (TIRF), tau aggregation assays, and live-cell imaging

* Perform quantitative analysis of tau dynamics, microtubule interactions, and aggregation kinetics

* Collect, analyze, and present data in group meetings and external conferences

* Maintain detailed experimental records and notes

* Work with the Principal Investigator to prepare high-quality peer-reviewed manuscripts and grant submissions to pursue funding opportunities

* Provide peer review and feedback on manuscripts and grants

* Collaborate with researchers at the UC Davis Alzheimers Disease Research Center and other institutions

Lab Management (10%)

* Provide technical support and mentoring for junior researchers (graduate students and undergraduates)

* Maintain lab stocks, reagents, and databases

* Contribute to lab maintenance and organization

* Assist with equipment maintenance and optimization of microscopy platforms

Questions

Please direct questions to Richard McKenney, rjmckenney@ucdavis.edu

To Apply qualified applicants should upload:

* Cover letter describing research interests and career goals

* Research statement describing relevant research experience, technical skills, and how your background aligns with the position

* Curriculum vitae

* Contact information for three references

Documents must be submitted as PDF files.

Apply via this URL: https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF07419

Graduate degree (PhD or equivalent) in cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics, neuroscience, or related field with demonstrated expertise in protein biochemistry and microscopy. Candidate must have experience in fluorescence microscopy techniques. Candidate also must be able to keep a complete and detailed laboratory notebook of experimental procedures and data and to archive and document reagents and data for publications, grant proposals, and presentations. Strong organizational and planning skills are a must. Prior experience with single-molecule imaging, microtubule dynamics, or neurodegenerative disease research is preferred. The ideal candidate will have strong interpersonal, communication, and decision-making skills and the ability to work well both independently and as a part of a team.

* Demonstrated ability to design and execute independent research projects

* Strong written and oral communication skills, including experience presenting research at conferences or seminars

* Proficiency in quantitative data analysis using software such as Python, MATLAB, ImageJ/Fiji, or similar platforms

* Track record of productivity as evidenced by publications or manuscripts in preparation

* Ability to work with biohazardous materials following appropriate safety protocols

* Willingness to work flexible hours as needed for time-sensitive experiments (e.g., live-cell imaging)

* Commitment to fostering an inclusive and collaborative lab environment

* Experience with protein expression and purification from bacterial or eukaryotic systems

* Familiarity with total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy or other advanced imaging techniques

* Background in tau biology, microtubule-associated proteins, or Alzheimer's disease research

* Experience with mammalian cell culture and transfection

* Knowledge of biophysical techniques (e.g., analytical ultracentrifugation, dynamic light scattering, circular dichroism)

* Programming skills for image analysis automation and data visualization

* Experience mentoring undergraduate or graduate students

• 3 required (contact information only)

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
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