The Paller Laboratory, focused on skin biology research at Northwestern University’s School of Medicine in Chicago, invites applications for postdoctoral candidates.
Our lab’s three main areas of focus are:
- understanding how skin cells communicate with sensory nerves, the immune system, and the vasculature in diabetic wounds and inflammatory skin disorders (such as psoriasis, eczema, and genetic skin disorders);
- understanding new directions to reduce pain in genetic skin disorders, particularly blistering diseases; and
- elucidating the molecular basis for alterations in skin lipid composition and the mechanism for the inter-relationships between skin barrier impairment and immune activation in inflammatory skin disorders.
Our ultimate goal is discovery about human disease in the lab and translation of these findings towards new therapies. Our federally funded lab works with mouse models of skin disease, 3D human skin models, and patient-derived human biospecimens for big data analysis.
The ideal candidate will possess expertise in skin biology gained through their PhD research or an early postdoctoral fellowship, which can be applied to our work. They should also demonstrate a keen enthusiasm for further developing their skills during this fellowship related to skin biology. Research projects will involve culturing cells, working with mice, performing advanced microscopy and biochemistry, and using cutting-edge “omics” technology. The successful candidate must have excellent communication skills.
Minimum Qualifications:
PhD or postdoctoral training in skin biology, immunology; molecular or cell biology, biochemistry laboratory experience favored as well. Bioinformatics programming capabilities a plus.
Minimum Competencies:
- Proficiency with Word, Excel
- Exposure to animal handling
- Sterile cell culture, molecular biology
- Experience with biochemistry and/or immunology techniques
- Molecular biology skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in working with mouse models of disease
- Understanding of receptor signaling or immune pathways
- Experience in biostatistics
- Understanding of skin biology as bonus, but not required
Preferred Competencies:
- Competency in molecular analyses
- Familiar with biochemistry techniques
- Eagerness to learn new knowledge and techniques
Principal Accountabilities:
- Lab maintenance, ordering materials (10%)
- Conducting laboratory experiments (50%)
- Maintaining animals, breeding, genotyping for experiments (10%)
- Help write grants (10%)
- Supervising students and colleagues (10%)
- Help write and prepare manuscripts (10%)
Interested applicants should email a complete CV, a brief description of their research achievements and interests, and the name and contact details for three referees to n-kaplan@northwestern.edu.
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, underrepresented racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States.
