This is an exciting opportunity to work as a postdoc in the Kummer lab at Washington University School of Medicine running a newly-funded research portfolio. We are a biology and neuroscience laboratory focused on applying cutting-edge techniques to understand the mechanisms of acute brain injury, especially traumatic brain injury (TBI), and its connections to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other forms of neurodegeneration. We are particularly interested in synaptic mechanisms of neural circuit impairment. We work with animal models (mostly mice) and with patients in the hospital, and collaborate with academic and industry partners ensuring a broad-based, growth-oriented experience and a large, diverse field of colleagues. The Kummer lab specializes in techniques including imaging, molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, functional assessments, and immunolabeling. 

The position will involve day-to-day decision making regarding scientific direction and experimental implementation. The applicant will manage projects with independence to accomplish the studyâ™s goals. The decisions made have the potential to positively impact the large number of victims of TBI and neurodegenerative disease by supplying new knowledge about essential elements involved in acute and chronic brain injury. There is furthermore an opportunity to work with human victims of TBI through the PIâ™s clinical activities in the NeuroICU at Barnes-Jewish Hospital.

For more information on the lab, please visit Home | Terrance Kummer Lab | Washington University in St. Louis (wustl.edu).

In addition to high-quality research facilities, career and professional development training for postdoctoral researchers is provided through the Career Center, Teaching Center, Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, and campus groups. Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Manages their own projects, which should lead to first author publications. Includes designing research experiments and evaluating research findings.
• Develops expertise in imaging, genetics, molecular biology, and immunolabeling.
• Develops proficiency in career skills, including writing, public speaking, networking, and critical evaluation of scientific literature.
• Presents scientific work both inside and outside the university with excellent oral communication skills.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Prepares and submits papers on research with excellent writing skills.
• Maintains conformity with ethical standards in research.
• Maintains compliance with good laboratory practice including the maintenance of adequate research records.
• Collegial conduct towards co-trainees, staff members and members of the research group.
• Adheres to all applicable university policies, procedures and regulations. All data, research records and materials and other intellectual property generated in university laboratories remain the property of the university.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D., M.D. or equivalent terminal or doctoral degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• Skills and/or experience in the following areas: working with laboratory animals, microscopic imaging, molecular biology, biochemistry, behavioral testing, and basic coding skills in languages pertinent to biological research (R, python, matlab, Julia, etc.).
• Interpersonal skills appropriate to a team-based enterprise.
• Strong work ethic, professionalism, and organizational skills.
• Data management, documentation, quantitative and experimental rigor, and a strong commitment to scientific ethics.
• Hands-on work with mice.
• Willingness to learn new skills and teach others.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Applicant Special Instructions

Please email your resume to Dr. Kummer at kummert@wustl.edu.