Post Doctoral Scholar - Surgery

The Postdoctoral Researcher will pursue advanced research training under the mentorship of Dr. Rongxue (Rosie) Wu, MD, PhD, Associate Professor in the Department of Surgery (Cardiology) at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. This position focuses on the Heart–Brain Axis, investigating how cardiovascular and systemic inflammatory stressors disrupt blood–brain barrier integrity, promote neuroinflammation, and contribute to aging-related vascular and neurological dysfunction.

The successful candidate will study mechanisms linking endothelial injury, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammatory signaling to brain–vascular pathology, using integrated in vitro and in vivo models.

• Study interactions between endothelial dysfunction, mitochondrial stress, and inflammatory signaling.
• Examine mechanisms of organ cross‑talk between the heart, vasculature, and brain.
• Utilize in vitro and in vivo models, including inflammatory and aging‑related models.
• Perform molecular, cellular, and biochemical assays, including qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, ECIS, permeability assays, and mitochondrial functional analyses.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental datasets.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation and scientific writing.
• Participate in collaborative meetings, seminars, and journal clubs.
• Perform additional duties as needed to support the research mission of the laboratory.

• PhD, MD, or MD/PhD in cardiovascular biology, neuroscience, physiology, molecular biology, or a related field.
• Experience or strong interest in BBB biology, neuroinflammation, endothelial function, mitochondrial biology, or aging.
• Experience with mouse models is preferred but not required.
• Strong motivation for an academic research career.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post‑offer process.