Post Doctoral Fellow at Howard University in College of Medicine

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth. Here is what we offer: Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture Join Howard University and thrive with us! https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness BASIC FUNCTION: A full-time Postdoctoral Position is immediately available in the Laboratory of Dr. Sayan Nandi, in collaboration with Dr. Thomas Heinbockel and Dr. Byron Ford, in the Department of Anatomy, Howard University, Washington DC. The laboratories are focused on understanding the roles of neuroinflammation in brain injury. Microglia are the principal immune cells of the brain and constitute 10%-15% of total brain cells. They are bona fide phagocytes with well-defined roles in clearing dead cells and debris. Microglial “activation” is considered as a “double-edged sword” in neural injuries such as stroke and traumatic brain injury, with both beneficial and detrimental roles. Microglial “activation” is required to clear dead neurons, leading to the recovery process. On the other hand, inappropriately activated microglia can release proinflammatory cytokines and further engulf live neurons, thereby worsening the injury. We will test the ideas of direct roles played by microglia in these processes using genetically engineered mouse models. We will combine surgical, histological, imaging and molecular (spatial transcriptomic and epigenetic) approaches to understand microglial contribution to the recovery from a neural injury. SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY: The candidate is expected to be involved either directly or indirectly (by assisting the PIs) in the training of incoming students and postdoctoral fellows. NATURE AND SCOPE: Internal contacts include assistant/associate deans, directors, department heads/chairs, faculty, staff and students at the College and school levels, and deans, directors, and executive level officers at university level. External contacts include governmental agencies such as Federal and the District of Columbia Agencies, health professionals, students, parents, and the general public. Fulfill tasks in collaborative team of students and researchers from Howard University. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES: The candidate is expected to have training in rodent surgical, histological and imaging techniques. The candidate is also expected to work collaboratively with the faculty in the Department of Anatomy as well as outside the Department, as required. The candidate should be able to effectively communicate with the PIs. This position requires in-depth understanding of brain functions and scientific literature, extensive data analyses and interpretation as well as skills required for scientific presentation. The candidate is expected to be involved in the training of incoming students and postdoctoral fellows in the PI’s laboratory. Participates in academic, didactic, and professional training provided through seminars, workshops, and direct meetings with grant faculty. Coordinates and assure development of pertinent reports and their timely delivery. Conducts data collection, statistical analysis, and data interpretation responsibilities secondary to CMHSR grant portfolio. Participates in grant writing, development of manuscripts and reports, and conduct of primary and secondary data analyses. Manages their own project, which is expected to yield one or more publications including confe