Job Description

Cao laboratory studies the molecular underpinning of pathogenic events leading to neurodegenerative diseases. Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a leading health and economic burden to an aging society, is a condition with a complex etiology that manifests as dysregulated neuronal functions and intercellular communication in the brain. Increasingly, glial activation is recognized as a key hallmark of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. We are keen to illuminate the fundamental principles that govern brain cell crosstalk in AD and brain aging (see our recent publications Immunity 55, 879 (2022); J. Clin. Invest. 130:1912 (2020); Front Neurosci 14:577744 (2020) and more at med.uth.edu/anesthesiology/faculty/wei-cao-phd/)

Establishing a fresh presence in UTHealth, we are seeking an enthusiastic candidate to join our spirited group. The focus of the immediate project is to characterize a specific response of astrocytes to AD pathologies and stress in vitro and in vivo, with the aim of illuminating the key pathways and factors involved in cell communication and eventual degeneration.
Motivated candidates with in-depth training and knowledge in neuroscience, molecular biology, and/or immunology are encouraged to apply. Previous experience with biochemistry, confocal microscopy, and/or in vivo disease modeling is a plus.

Job Duties
• Initiate, conduct, and lead research projects based on sound and innovative scientific hypotheses.
• Develop technical expertise in areas such as genetic animal models, recombinant viral vectors, confocal imaging, molecular biology, and multiomics analysis.
• Plan, direct, and conduct specialized and advanced research experiments; establish new research protocols and procedures; and evaluate and analyze data.
• Summarize the research findings and write and publish the results in research journals.
• Responsible for laboratory operations in a team environment.
• Participate in educational events such as journal clubs and research presentations in both formal and informal settings on a regular basis.
• Collaborate with investigators outside the lab and main effective communication

Application Requirements:
• Education: MD or Ph.D. in Basic Science, Health Science,
• No experience required

How to apply
Please send a current resume/CV, a cover letter and contact information of three references by email to [email protected]