Research Assistant (Vascular Cell Biology) - Prehealth Opportunity

The Schaffer lab studies diabetes and its cardiovascular complications. We are using genetic, biochemical, cell biological, and physiological approaches to elucidate mechanisms through which abnormally high levels of metabolites cause cell dysfunction and cell death. Current areas of focus include non-canonical functions of small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs), regulated RNA degradation, and translational regulation in response to metabolic stress. Our goal is to discover fundamental mechanisms of metabolic stress responses and to translate our findings in ways that inform development of approaches to improve the lives of patients with metabolic diseases. For more information on our lab and interests, visit https://www.schafferlab.org.

An opening is available for a graduate with an interest in basic and translational studies with high relevance to important human diseases. This position will afford the opportunity to learn a broad array of techniques and gain first-hand experience in design, execution and interpretation of experiments. Previous graduates who have worked during gap years in our laboratory have earned authorship on publications and have gone on to succeed in MD/PhD, MD, and PhD programs.

Ideal candidates will be curious, highly motivated, responsible, and self-directed learners. They should have a strong background in molecular cell biology and chemistry and prior laboratory experience. Applicants must be willing to commit for a minimum of two years of work.