POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER – Molecular Biology – Mena Lab [Req#: 924036, Position#: 130594]

Department of Molecular Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center

The Mena Laboratory, led by Dr. Elijah Mena, seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher to study protein degradation in cancer and aging. Our newly established lab focuses on fundamental aspects of the proteasome, protein aggregation, and the mechanisms by which protein degradation is disrupted in disease. We integrate traditional cell biological and biochemical techniques with high-throughput functional genomics and AI/ML approaches, providing a cutting-edge environment for mechanistic discovery.

Key Responsibilities:

·         Independent Research Leadership: Design, organize, and execute advanced research projects; analyze data critically; adapt experimental strategies based on results.

·         Mentorship and Collaboration: Supervise and train graduate students and technicians; contribute to a collaborative lab and departmental environment.

·         Scientific Communication: Document results rigorously, contribute to manuscripts, and participate in internal and external scientific discussions.

Why Join Us:

·         Lead innovative projects in a newly launched, well-funded lab at a top-tier research institution.

·         Collaborate across disciplines, integrating traditional experimental biology, high-throughput screens, and computational biology.

·         Opportunities for professional growth, including mentorship, conference participation, and manuscript authorship.

·         UTSW offers competitive benefits. For more information, visit: https://jobs.utsouthwestern.edu/benefits/

Qualifications:

·         Ph.D. and/or M.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Cancer Biology, or a related field.

·         Demonstrated expertise in molecular, biochemical, or cell biology work, with publications in peer-reviewed journals.

·         Required skills: Candidates must have prior experience in core molecular and biochemical techniques, including molecular cloning, Western blotting, and cell culture.

·         Recommended skills:

o    Cell engineering and imaging: Transfections, lentiviral transductions, immunofluorescence, and confocal microscopy.

o    Protein work: Expression and purification of recombinant proteins.

o    Screening and genomics: Flow cytometry, FACS, and CRISPR screens.

o    Computational skills: Basic coding or familiarity with computational analysis, particularly of next generation sequencing (NGS) data.

·         Strong candidates who do not possess all preferred skills are still encouraged to apply.

To Apply:

Interested candidates should send a CV, a short cover letter, and the contact information of at least two (2) references to elijah.mena@utsouthwestern.edu

UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community.  As an equal opportunity employer, UT Southwestern prohibits unlawful discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or veteran status.

This position is security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code 51.215, which authorizes UT Southwestern to obtain criminal history record information.

Appointment rank will be commensurate with academic accomplishment and experience. Consideration may be given to applicants seeking less than a full-time schedule.

To learn more about the benefits UT Southwestern offers, visit https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/employees/hr-resources/