Back to search results Apply now Job no:893037
Work type:Faculty/Academic Staff
Major Administrative Unit / College: College Of Natural Science
Department: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Cns 10032098
Sub Area: FAS- Fac./Acad Staff
Salary: Salary Commensurate with Experience
Location:East Lansing
Categories:Research/Scientific, Fixed Term Academic Staff, Full Time (90-100%), Non-Union

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available in the laboratory of Melanie Balbach in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Michigan State University. The Research Associate will focus on the metabolic changes and underlying regulatory pathways in the male germ cell during activation and during zygote development.

Specific topics of current interest are:

• Metabolomics and lipidomics analysis of non-activated and activated mammalian sperm and sperm from external fertilizer, i.e. zebrafish
• Characterization of glycolytic enzyme knockout mouse models using extracellular flux analysis, metabolic profiling and metabolic flux analysis in addition to sperm capacitation and fertilization assays
• High-throughput screening to identify small molecular inhibitors of sperm-specific glycolytic enzymes with a potential application as on-demand, non-hormonal male contraceptive
• Identification of signaling pathways regulating the adaptation of sperm metabolism to changing energy requirements
• Metabolic characterization of the developing zygote

Description of work/duties:

The position requires the development and application of advanced omics tools in combination with sperm motility, capacitation and fertilization read-outs as well as high-throughput screening assays. Research findings are expected to be reported in the form of written publications as well as oral presentations within MSU and at scientific meetings. Opportunities for professional development include participation in grant proposal writing, attending and presenting at scientific research symposiums and conferences, networking with other scientists within and outside MSU as well as mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Doctorate -Cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology

• Ph.D. in Cell biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biophysics, or related fields
• Wet-lab research experience
• Record of publishing in peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Evidence of creativity in experimental design, eagerness to learn and grow and working independently as well as in a team
• Strong written and oral communication skills to collaborate and communicate effectively with researchers from diverse scientific backgrounds

• Expertise in reproduction biology
• Experience in metabolomics
• Experience in lipidomics
• Experience with high-throughput screening

Cover letter (up to two pages) describing your interest(s) in the position, relevant skills and how your past research experience positions you for success in light of this position’s research focus

CV

List of publications (if not included in CV)

Names and contact information for three professional references

09/06/2023

melaniebalbachlab.org

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.

Advertised:Aug 31, 2023 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:Aug 31, 2025 Eastern Daylight Time