Post Doctoral Researcher - Cochran Lab

Position:
Post Doctoral Researcher

Job Type: Full-Time

The Hudson Alpha Institute for Biotechnology ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).) is a non-profit organization with the mission to use biotechnology and basic biological research to make important discoveries, improve human health, stimulate economic development, inspire young people to seek careers in science, and teach members of the public the importance of science in their everyday lives. Located in Cummings Research Park in Huntsville, Alabama, one of the world's leading science and technology parks, Hudson Alpha's campus contains state-of-the-art laboratories for biological research and development, as well as education, in the areas of genomics, genetics, and personalized medicine.

The J. Nicholas Cochran laboratory uses genomic approaches to answer biological questions specific to neurodegenerative diseases with an emphasis on Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Therefore, while not required, subject area familiarity and/or interest in genetics, genomics, neuroscience, or neurodegenerative diseases is desirable. Projects include the study of gene regulation for genes implicated in neurodegeneration, novel analysis approaches for associating genetic variation with neurodegenerative diseases, and genome-wide genomics approaches relevant to neurodegeneration.

A key ongoing effort related to this position includes contributing to studies designed to impact Alabamians through longitudinal ascertainment of risk for Alzheimer's disease, including through assessment of several established and candidate biomarkers and "omics" approaches.

The Post Doctoral Researcher contributes to scientific discovery with the objective of publishing original manuscripts in scientific journals. The Postdoctoral Researcher has the opportunity to utilize Hudson Alpha's state-of-the-art technologies and shared support services while pursuing research interests that directly contribute to or enhance the Institute's ongoing projects.

The Post Doc:

• Conducts and contributes to original research under the guidance of the Faculty Investigator
• Provides expertise in research program design, conduct, and analysis
• Prepares manuscripts and co-authors papers for publication in high-quality journals
• Presents findings to the scientific community
• Assists in the mentoring and teaching of research staff
• Helps ensure that the research methods and ultimate work product are reflective of the highest scientific standards of integrity, quality, and confidence
• Exhibits curiosity and enthusiasm for discovery; embraces the ever-changing scientific environment
• Other duties as assigned
• Note:
  
  this position will periodically require limited weekend hours for performance of mammalian cell culture and/or molecular cloning procedures.

• Doctoral degree from an accredited institution in life sciences, biostatistics, or a related field
• Extensive laboratory and research experience that introduces or enhances a unique research capability at Hudson Alpha
• A track record of high-quality research work, as evidenced by manuscript publications and/or pre-prints
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a highly collaborative environment
• Experience advising on research methodology and analysis, as well as the ability to interpret laboratory results and provide conclusions
• Demonstrated ability to advance projects, managing multiple tasks and priorities
• Proficiency with laboratory software, tools, and equipment
• Knowledge related to neuroscience and/or neurodegenerative diseases would be beneficial
• Experience with mammalian cell culture is highly preferred
• Experience with functional genomics approaches would be beneficial
• Knowledge of current bioinformatics approaches and/or programming skills in one or more languages (ie bash, Perl, Python, R) is not required, but would be beneficial

The physical demands, work environment factors, and mental functions described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential function of this job. Reasonable…