Postdoctoral Positions – Augmented Regeneration: Enhancing Endogenous Mechanisms and Inducing In Vivo Transdifferentiation | SBP Institute, La Jolla, California, US
Our lab is interested in basic and applied biology, in the fields of development, regeneration, and aging. Current research projects are primarily focused on understanding and stimulating regeneration by leveraging three recent breakthroughs from our laboratory. First, we have identified a novel regenerative stem cell source that we are coaxing to enhance organ repair for liver and pancreatic diseases, such as Alagille Syndrome (publication) and diabetes. Second, we have identified a first-in-class small molecule, directly targeting a key signaling pathway implicated in regulating somatic stem cells, that can enhance liver regeneration (video). We are now developing this patent pending drug as a basic science research tool and as a potential therapeutic for disorders affecting several other organs systems. And third, we have developed an effective and efficient new vertebrate platform for investigating induced in vivo transdifferentiation as a strategy for generating replacement cells directly in the body, independent of transplantation and iPSC approaches, and discovered that functionally differentiated muscle cells are still amenable to be converted into completely unrelated cell types of a different germ layer (preprint). Extending on this breakthrough, we recently identified two novel mechanisms which are required for in vivo transdifferentiation and can be leveraged to enhance this cell identity conversion process.
Our lab, located in coastal, sunny San Diego (a mecca of academia, biotech, and pharma), offers exciting projects, rigorous training, mentoring, a friendly work environment, and a competitive salary (starting at ~$60K annual salary, with benefits).
Interested candidates with a PhD and expertise in genetics, developmental/ in vivo/chemical biology, or cell culture systems are encouraged to apply. Experience with GNS and bioinformatics, a plus. Ability to work well others and having an open mind and a passion for science, a must.
Please send inquiries to:
Duc Dong, PhD, Associate Professor
Associate Dean of Admissions
Programs in Human Genetics and
Development, Aging, & Regeneration
Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences
Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute
La Jolla, California, United States