Position Summary

Unique and exciting Postdoctoral Research Associate Position in the Zayed Translational Research Innovation Laboratory (Department of Surgery at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis).

The laboratory is recruiting for a postdoctoral researcher who is interested in pursuing an academic research career in vascular pathophysiology. This opportunity is ideal for researchers who wish to become rapidly productive and participate in ongoing and already funded research studies. The opportunity also allows the researcher to work collaboratively with various other dynamic scientists within the departments of surgery, radiology, endocrinology, immunology, and biomedical engineering. In addition to direct access to high-quality research facilities, the research environment is also highly accommodating and flexible. Researchers will have access to unique career and professional development training opportunities through the Washington University School of Medicine Career Center, Teaching Center, Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, and many other professional campus groups.

The Zayed Laboratory is searching for a postdoctoral candidate who is interested in participating in exciting and cutting-edge research that has direct relevance to human vascular pathophysiology. The Zayed Research Innovation Laboratory is a well-funded research laboratory that fosters a diverse, vibrant, and collaborative research environment for research scientists who wish to advance their research academic careers. The laboratory provides the environment and critical resources for research investigators (at all levels and backgrounds) to participate in exciting research projects evaluating a broad array of topics in vascular pathophysiology. These already funded research topics include projects in:

• Endothelial and smooth muscle cell biology.
• Arterial and venous structural anatomy.
• Atherogenesis and atheroprogression.
• Molecular imaging of human atherosclerosis.
• Influence of lipid metabolism and diabetes on arterial disease.
• Influence of diet on arterial aneurysmal disease and inflammation.
• Serum biomarkers of vascular disease.
• Large animal models for deep venous thrombosis.
• Arteriovenous vascular platforms for xenotransplantation.

The laboratory is housed in a large 1,300 sq.ft. newly renovated space, with plenty of laboratory bench and desk space for researchers. The Zayed Research Innovation Laboratory specifically includes its own:

• Histology core facility.
• Robust biobank of human/rodent/porcine vascular specimens.
• Surgical suites.
• Short-term small animal housing facility.
• Immunohistochemistry and microscopy center.
• Tissue culture facility.
• Engineering and device construction space.
• Conference meeting space.

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/ .

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

The researcher will be supervised by Dr. Mohamed Zayed (Associate Professor of Surgery, Radiology, Molecular Cell Biology, and Biomedical Engineering). The researcher responsibilities and duties will include (but not limited to) the following:

• Manages own project, leading to first author publications.
• Critical evaluates the scientific literature.
• Develops expertise in vascular tissue metabolic analysis.
• Designs research experiments.
• Efficiently and effectively completes research experiments/projects.
• Evaluates research findings and reports results in laboratory meetings.
• Presents scientific work both inside and outside the University with excellent oral and communication skills.
• Prepares and submits papers on research with excellent writing skills.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Maintains compliance with good laboratory practice including the maintenance of adequate research records.
• Maintains conformity with highest ethical standards in research.
• Engages in open and timely discussion with the mentor regarding possession or distribution of material, reagents, or records belonging to their laboratory and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques privately or in publications.
• Collegial conduct towards co-scientists, staff members, and members of the research group.
• Adherence to all applicable university policies, procedures and regulations. All data, research records and materials and other intellectual property generated in university laboratories remain the property of the university.

Required Qualifications

PhD, MD, or equivalent terminal doctoral degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• Qualified candidate should have five years of research experience in a basic or translational science discipline.
• Candidates with prior experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, immunohistochemistry, tissue culture, genetics, research statistical analysis, and use of small animal models would be very well suited for this position.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.