Post Doctoral Associate

The Dr John Ash research team at the University of Pittsburgh seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate. The lab is well funded with support from two NIH R01 Awards. Most projects focus on retinal degeneration mechanisms and identifying pathways that can be targeted to prevent degeneration. The specific project described below was designed to test the role of aging, metabolism, neurocytokines, and immune modulation in regulating resistance to retinal degeneration. The ultimate goal is the development of therapies to prevent degeneration.

Current research areas include but are not limited to: Regulators of retinal metabolism in healthy and degenerating retinas. Work for the lab has shown that AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-alpha (PGC-1a) and beta (PGC-1b) are critical regulators of metabolism in the retina. AMPK) is an essential regulator of PGC-1 activity. . (Xu, Kong et al. 2018, Brown, Ball et al. 2019, Brown, DeWeerd et al. 2019, Brown, Lewin et al. 2019, Xu, Brown et al. 2020, Ferrington, Kenney et al. 2021, Wang, Punzo et al. 2022). In this project, we use both gain-of-function and loss-of-function approaches combined with metabolic and RNAseq studies to identify the role of these factors in retinal health, normal function, and degeneration.

Qualifications or Expectations:

• Ph.D. in biochemistry, neuroscience, or relevant field of biomedical sciences, or M.D. in Ophthalmology.

• A highly motivated and responsible scientist with demonstrated capability of working independently with strong troubleshooting skills, quick learning, and teamwork spirit.

• Experience in one or more of the following techniques is preferred: animal handling and breeding, mouse injection and dissection, histology, confocal imaging, molecular cloning, Nextgen sequencing, single-cell sequencing, and data analysis.

Opportunities Available:

Trainees with ready-to-publish projects are supported to attend national meetings such as ARVO, FASEB, or RD meetings.

The University of Pittsburgh provides an excellent environment to support diversity and international scientists and is currently ranked number 4 for NIH funding in the US. Pittsburgh is a vibrant and affordable city that offers many local amenities, including major league sports, a dynamic cultural district, and an old-world neighborhood charm. Rated the “Most Livable City” in the US by Forbes Magazine and the Economist, Pittsburgh is a great place to live and work.

Qualified candidates are welcome to submit a PDF file including a cover letter describing research interest, strength, and previous accomplishments (1 -2 pages), CV, and contacts of at least three references to Dr. Ash (ashj@pitt.edu). The University of Pittsburgh, the Department of Ophthalmology, and the Ash Lab are committed to the principles of Diversity, Inclusion, and Equality. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. Email Address of Contact: ashj@pitt.edu

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.