Postdoctoral Researcher

23847BR

Pharmacology & Toxicology

Position Overview

There is a Postdoctoral Researcher position available in the laboratory of Dr. Zijun Wang in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at The University of Kansas (https://pharmtox.ku.edu/lab/zijun-wang).

Our laboratory focuses on revealing the epigenetic and transcriptional mechanisms underlying substance use disorders.  DNA integrity is required for normal gene transcription.  We are trying to understand how DNA damage and repair processes are disrupted during opioid use disorder, and how this disruption contributes to opioids-induced changes in chromatin structure and gene transcription, which eventually lead to neuronal and behavioral maladaptations.  We use cutting edge and multidisciplinary approaches including genetic, molecular, cellular, and next generation sequencing tools, as well as electrophysiology, in vivo fiber photometry and behavioral assays.  We also maintain close collaborations with molecular biologist, biostatistician, behavioral neuroscientist to complement our research approaches.

Postdocs in the lab will receive individualized mentorship.  All team members will be encouraged and supported to develop their own line of research.  We are seeking highly motivated and collaborative colleagues, who are eager to learn and committed to conduct rigorous experiments.  We encourage applicants who are interested in studying substance use disorder, DNA damage repairs, and epigenetic regulation of gene transcription to join our team.  We encourage applications from underrepresented minorities. 

This position is limited term with a typical duration of 1-5 years. Individuals who have served as a postdoctoral fellow/researcher for up to five years in the same area of research are not eligible.

The KU School of Pharmacy, located in the heart of the beautiful and historic Lawrence campus, offers an excellent research environment, and has been consecutively ranked nationally among the top 10 in NIH funding since 2001.  Moreover, the Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment as well as KU Cancer Center provide additional substantial resources for the pursuit of excellence in drug addiction and epigenetic research.

Job Description

70% – Conduct Research Activities under the supervision of PI, including but not limited to:

• library preparation for next generation sequencing using mouse brain tissue, integrative analysis for NGS DNA and RNA sequencing data.
• mouse stereotaxic injection (e.g., virus-mediated gene therapy in vivo), jugular surgery and behavioral assays (e.g., self-administration)
• ex vivo brain slice recording and in vivo calcium imaging (fiber photometry)
• traditional biochemistry and molecular biology experiments (e.g., western blot, PCR, immunostaining).

10%

• Generate research reports for preparation of scientific publications or presentation at scientific conferences.

10%

• Assist in writing grants and developing projects to seek independent extramural funding.

5% 

• Provide mentorship, trains, and supervises graduate and undergraduate researchers

5%

• Contribute to daily operations of the lab

Required Qualifications

PhD with research training in molecular biology, neuroscience, pharmacology, bioinformatics, data science or a closely related field.

NOTE:  

This is a limited term position.  To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD in hand.  Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an acting bases not to exceed six months.  Upon verification of degree the appointment will be extended to its full duration.

Preferred Qualifications

Decision making, communication, results orientation and problem solving.

Research experience with substance use disorder, DNA single strand and double strand breaks, integration of multi-omics data analysis, programing with R.

Demonstrated productivity by publications or other evidence of scholarly achievement.

Contact Information to Applicants

Zijun Wang
[email protected]

Additional Candidate Instruction

In addition to the online application, the following documents are required to be considered for this position.

• A cover letter addressing how required and preferred qualifications are met.
• Resume or curriculum vitae.
• Contact information for two professional references.

Application review will begin November 28, 2022 and will continue until an qualified applicant is identified.  To ensure first consideration, please apply by November 27, 2022.

Advertised Salary Range

Commensurate with Experience

Application Review Begins

28-Nov-2022

Anticipated Start Date

03-Jan-2023

Primary Campus

University of Kansas Lawrence Campus

Employee Class

U-Unclassified Professional Staff

Conditions of Employment

Contingent on Funding

Work Location Assignment

On-Site

Disclaimer

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university’s programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and are the Title IX coordinators for their respective campuses: Director of the Office of Civil Rights & Title IX, [email protected], Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY (for the Lawrence, Edwards, Parsons, Yoder, and Topeka campuses); Director, Equal Opportunity Office, Mail Stop 7004, 4330 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Fairway, KS 66205, 913-588-8011, 711 TTY (for the Wichita, Salina, and Kansas City, Kansas medical center campuses).