Post Doctoral Associate
Full-time
We are looking to recruit a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate for our newly initiated research program centered around compartmentalized G protein signaling by internalized G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in the Thomsen Laboratory of Biomolecular Pharmacology at New York University's College of Dentistry. Over the past years, we discovered a new signaling paradigm whereby certain GPCRs can stimulate G protein signaling from endosomes through the formation of a unique receptor complex termed the “megaplex” (Thomsen, Plouffe, Cahill III et al. (2016), Cell; Cahill III & Thomsen et al. (2017), PNAS; Nguyen, Thomsen, Cahill III et al. (2019), Nat Struct Mol Biol). As we now understand this mechanism to the near-atomic level, our current research focus is to study how the megaplex regulates physiological functions. In this regard, we are particularly interested in how compartmentalized chemokine receptors promote chemotactic cell migration, as well as how to target sustained endosomal GPCR signaling using novel innovative drug discovery strategies.
The primary project of the successful candidate funded by the NCI/NIH aims to develop a deep understanding of cellular processes taking place during the chemotaxis of immune and cancer cells. We recently concluded a project on the downstream signaling aspects of compartmentalized chemokine receptor signaling (https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.09.27.509755v1.full), and thus, we are now interested in investigating how these events orchestrate larger biological changes that enable cells to migrate towards chemokine stimuli. The project will involve work with immune cell models, as well as primary metastatic tissue isolated from melanoma patients, and seeks to use interdisciplinary approaches to address this question. These approaches include cell & molecular biology, advanced microscopy (super-resolution and/or electron microscopy), and cell migration assays.
As we are dedicated to applying the insights learned from this project to the design of innovative therapeutic solutions for cell-based therapy, this position is ideal for individuals who are committed to a research career in academia or in bioentrepreneurship.
In addition, it is also expected that the applicant will participate in related secondary projects and collaborative projects within and/or outside our laboratory.
NYU provides a competitive salary and benefits package, reduced housing cost in the heart of Manhattan in New York (subject to funding and availability of housing), and, in line with University and College guidelines, full support for eligible international visa applicants as applicable.
Finally, as the lab is devoted to provide a diverse and inclusive environment, individuals from racial and ethnic backgrounds that historically have been underrepresented in sciences in the US are encouraged to apply.
In compliance with NYC’s Pay Transparency Act, the annual base salary range for this position is $58,500 - $61,450. New York University considers factors such as (but not limited to) the specific grant funding and the terms of the research grant when extending an offer.
Qualified candidates must: