Job Summary
Two Postdoctoral positions are available in the Center for Vision Research at SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA in the lab of Dr. Audrey Bernstein starting July 2017.
Project 1: Promoting regenerative healing in the eye. Scarring results from the persistence of myofibroblasts, cells that excessively contract tissue and secrete disorganized extracellular matrix. RNA sequencing of myofibroblasts revealed significant changes in the expression of genes coding for ubiquitin pathway components, including increased expression of a subset of deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs). This project will 1) investigate the impact of the DUB, USP10 in regulating integrin-mediated scarring and 2) test the efficacy of a self-delivery siRNA therapeutic to promote regenerative healing and prevent scarring in vivo.
Project 2: Autophagic Dysfunction in Exfoliation Glaucoma. In Exfoliation Glaucoma (XFG), the leading identifiable cause of glaucoma, the eye accumulates protein aggregates that block the exit of fluid from the eye. Our studies are the first to identify an age-related cellular defect in the autophagy system in patient-derived XFG cells. This project will 1) interrogate the basic mechanisms leading to protein aggregate formation and expulsion from cells, and 2) leveraging the vast literature on neurodegenerative protein aggregation diseases, test novel therapies on patient-derived cells to reverse XFG pathology.
Both projects use human primary patient-derived cells, organ culture, molecular and cell biological techniques as well as genetic and proteomic screening. The salary will be according to NIH guidelines, depending on the number of years of postdoctoral experience. SUNY Upstate is a well-funded campus with excellent resources. Syracuse, NY has a high quality of life with beautiful surroundings.
http://www.goodyclancy.com/projects/upstate-neuroscience-research-building/Required Qualifications
We are seeking highly motivated and creative individuals with a PhD or MD. Experience in cell culture, molecular biology, and/or ocular surgery on animal models is welcomed. The successful candidate will have excellent organizational and communication skills.
Contact:
Please send a CV and contact information for 3 references to Dr. Audrey Bernstein (
[email protected]). Web page at SUNY is in progress. Please see
http://labs.icahn.mssm.edu/audreybernsteinlab/
