Posted 1mo ago

Postdoctoral Researcher - Ellerby lab

@ Buck Institute for Research on Aging
Novato, California, United States
$74k-$81k/yrOnsiteFull Time
Responsibilities:design HTS, conduct imaging, analyze data
Requirements Summary:PhD in Neuroscience, Biology, Chemistry or related field; strong cell culture; experience with iPSC systems; CRISPR/Cas9 knowledge; first-author publications; Python or R data analysis; independent and collaborative work.
Technical Tools Mentioned:Python, R, imaging, CRISPR/Cas9, iPSC, high-throughput screening, omics
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Job Description
POSITION SUMMARY
The Postdoctoral Researcher will investigate mechanisms of brain aging and neurodegenerative disease, with a focus on identifying pathways and small molecules that promote cellular rejuvenation and resilience. This role emphasizes high-throughput screening and cell painting approaches.

The successful candidate will demonstrate the potential to lead peer-reviewed publications, contribute innovative experimental strategies, and compete for external fellowships and career development awards.

LAB OVERVIEW
The Ellerby lab studies the fundamental mechanisms underlying age-related neurodegenerative diseases and develops therapeutic strategies targeting brain aging. The lab integrates cutting-edge approaches—including induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), genomics, proteomics, high-throughput small-molecule screening, single-cell analysis, and CRISPR/Cas9—to better understand disease biology and identify novel interventions.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Design and implement high-throughput screening strategies to identify small molecules that promote cellular resilience or reverse aging phenotypes, with a focus on OXR1 and APOE2 biology.
  • Conduct high-content imaging experiments and quantitative image analysis.
  • Develop and optimize high-throughput screening (HTS) workflows.
  • Apply organoid and advanced in vitro model systems to study neurodegeneration.
  • Operate and integrate complex robotic and multi-instrument platforms.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams at the Buck Institute to develop standardized protocols and experimental designs.
  • Analyze large-scale imaging and multi-omics datasets using Python and/or R.
  • Perform data integration, annotation, and visualization using appropriate computational tools.
  • Present findings at lab meetings, institutional seminars, and scientific conferences.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education
  • PhD in Neuroscience, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field
 Experience and Skills
  • Strong cell culture expertise
  • Experience with iPSC systems (preferred)
  • Background in stem cell biology, neurodegenerative disease, and/or CRISPR/Cas9 technologies
  • Demonstrated track record of first-author or lead-author publications
  • Experience with high-throughput or high-content screening approaches (preferred)
  • Proficiency in data analysis using Python, R, or similar tools
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • Salary Range: $73,760-81,440 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications
  • Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid parental leave, childcare assistance, generous paid time off, and a 401(k) with 5% employer match
  • Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and technologies
  • Collaborative and mission-driven scientific environment
ABOUT US
The Buck Institute is dedicated to extending human healthspan by addressing the biological mechanisms of aging. As a leading independent non-profit research institute in Marin County, CA, the Buck brings together experts across multiple disciplines to prevent or delay age-related diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

The Buck Institute is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applicants who will contribute to the diversity of our community.

TO APPLY
Please submit your Curriculum vitae (CV), a cover letter describing your research interests and career goals, and contact information for 2 references. 

For Additional Information:
Professor Lisa M. Ellerby, Ph.D.
[email protected]