Scientist II

The Topkara Laboratory in the Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at University of Wisconsin - Madison School of Medicine and Public Health is seeking to recruit an outstanding Scientist II to study transcriptional regulatory mechanisms of heart failure and myocardial recovery. Leveraging our cardiac tissue repository from patients undergoing left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation and cardiac transplantation, we utilize state-of-art techniques including high-throughput sequencing, computational genomics, human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, and genetically engineered mouse models to discover and characterize new gene targets for heart failure. Current projects are focusing on understanding the role of non-coding RNAs, RNA binding proteins, and RNA splicing regulation in heart failure and myocardial recovery. The Scientist II will perform experiments to characterize genetically modified mice models and delineate the mechanism of RNA processing dysregulation during heart failure.

• This position requires work to be completed onsite, at a designated campus work location.

• Serves as a unit subject matter expert and liaison to internal and external stakeholders providing advanced level information and representing the interests of a specialized research area

• Attends and assists with the facilitation of scholarly events and presentations in support of continued professional development and the dissemination of research information

• Collects and analyzes complex research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures under general supervision

• Writes or assists in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding

• Identifies research problems and develops complex research methodologies and procedures

• Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials, and disseminates information to appropriate entities

• May supervise the day-to-day activities of a research unit as needed

School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Topkara Lab

Fueled by innovation yet grounded in kindness, the Department of Medicineempowers leaders to transform medicine and improve lives everywhere. We are committed to professional fulfillment and health equity.We strive to ensure that everyone in our department understands the importance of social impact and belonging-and is empowered to champion it in all they do.Join us and be a part of supporting our nationally recognized faculty, innovative medical education programs and exceptional clinical care as we work towards our vision of healthy people and healthy communities!

At the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, we help people live their healthiest lives through prevention and state-of-the-art care for complex heart disease.We lead comprehensive education, research and clinical programs-in partnership with our world-class university and remarkable health system. We are innovative, collaborative and kind. We strive for excellence and equity. And we make an impact in Wisconsin and beyond.

The starting salary wage for the position is $64,000 annually; but is negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage.

• SMPH Faculty /Academic Staff Benefits Flyer 2026

• Expertise in cellular and molecular biology techniques, cell culture and differentiation, and genetically engineered mouse models

• Research publications and presentations

• Experience in cardiovascular research and cardiac phenotyping

• Background in bioinformatic of high-throughput genetic data analysis including RNA sequencing and/or GWAS

Ph.D. in Biological Sciences, Healthcare, or closely related field is required by the start date of the position.

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* Cover letter required
* Resume required
* 2-3 letters of recommendation

Your cover letter should address how your training and experience aligns with the required and preferred qualifications listed above. Application reviewers will rely on these written materials to determine which applicants move forward in the process. References will be requested from final candidates. All applicants will be notified once the search concludes and a candidate is selected

Chanel Vang, clvang@medicine.wisc.edu, 608-263-1239

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