Postdoctoral Fellow

Overview

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) was established in 2010 to plot a new course in biomedical research that would change the lives of individuals affected with developmental brain disorders. LIBD focuses on understanding how genes and the environment influence brain development and how these factors contribute to conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, bipolar disorder, and related developmental brain disorders.

The institute is a 501(c)(3) medical research organization located in the Bioscience Park on the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital campus in Baltimore, MD.

We are a group of dedicated, multidisciplinary researchers utilizing state-of-the-art tools to unlock the mystery of the brain and transform the development of new treatments and cures. LIBD is an independent organization focused on translating cutting-edge research into a robust pipeline of new drugs in development.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and self-motivated postdoctoral associate with experience in molecular cell biology to join our interdisciplinary research team at the Lieber Institute for Brain Development, located on the Johns Hopkins medical campus in Baltimore, Maryland. This position is open to scientists seeking a translational research setting with a focus on human stem cell projects using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived trophoblasts and neuronal cells.

The successful applicant will work closely with a team of wet bench and computational scientists to investigate the consequences of compromised pregnancy on neurodevelopment with the goal of deciphering in utero mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. Responsibilities will include experimental design, executing protocols independently, analyzing data, and communicating scientific findings through presentations and publications.

• Culturing human iPSC and derivative cell lines
• Immunocytochemistry, single-molecule FISH, ELISA, western blot, RT-qPCR
• Sample preparation for proteomics, metabolomics, single-cell transcriptomics, and spatially-resolved transcriptomic analyses
• Maintain detailed experimental records and ensure reproducibility of protocols
• Other duties as assigned

• PhD in cell and molecular biology, neuroscience, or a closely related field
• Cellular and molecular biology and/or neuroscience experience
• Bench experience with culturing stem cells, molecular profiling assays or transcriptomic analysis would be beneficial

• Flexible work schedule (this position will require work for extended hours and on weekends and holidays, depending on the cell culture schedule)
• Exceptional wet lab skills
• Computational experience or familiarity with computing in R or Python is a plus
• Strong motivation to learn new methods and perform work efficiently and carefully
• Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to independently resolve technical challenges
• Excellent communication and collaborative skills, with ability to work effectively in a team-based environment

• Human PSC culture and trophoblast and/or neuronal differentiation
• Programming in R or Python
• Proteomics or metabolomics analysis
• Single-cell or spatially-resolved transcriptomic analysis
• Experience leading manuscript preparation
• Human placental biology
• Human neurodevelopmental biology

• Remaining in a seated or standing position for extended periods of time
• Reaching and grasping to manipulate objects with fingers
• Mobility to maneuver around a laboratory setting and move materials weighing up to 25 pounds
• Communication skills using spoken and written word
• Ability to receive detailed information through oral communication
• All other physical demands in a standard laboratory environment

If accommodations are needed due to pregnancy or a disability, please contact jobs at libd dot org.

Compensation will be based on the candidate’s postdoctoral experience and is consistent with the NIH NRSA stipends, which currently range from $62,232 (entry-level) to $75,564 (7+ years of experience).

The Lieber…