Post Doc Res Assoc

Job Summary

The Mahan Laboratory in the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Utah is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to join our team to investigate the mechanisms of peripheral nerve injury and repair.

Our research focuses on understanding microenvironmental changes during nerve injury/neuroma formation, with particular emphasis on immune-related factors, including the role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), and the development of mechanism-based therapeutic interventions targeting these pathways. We employ multidisciplinary approaches, including advanced immunohistochemistry and histological analyses, comprehensive animal behavioral testing, muscle and nerve electrophysiology, the use of genetically modified animal models, as well as spatial transcriptomics and proteomics.

We are seeking a highly motivated and collaborative postdoctoral fellow with relevant research experience and strong critical-thinking skills; however, outstanding recent PhD or MD/PhD graduates who are highly motivated to pursue hands-on training in neuroscience, neuroimmunology, and translational research related to peripheral nerve disorders are also strongly encouraged to apply. The fellow will have the opportunity to work in a collaborative and supportive research environment with access to state-of-the-art core facilities.

Responsibilities

This is a full-time appointment. The initial appointment is for 24 months, with renewal contingent upon performance and availability of funding.

Interested applicants should submit a CV, a brief statement of research interests, and contact information for three references.

Minimum Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• PhD or MD/PhD in neuroscience, immunology, physiology, biomedical sciences, or a related field
• Demonstrated ability to work with rodent models (both rats and mice), including colony management/breeding and survival surgery
• Strong background in rodent behavioral testing, immunostaining/analysis, and physiological assessments
• Demonstrated research productivity, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Preferences

Preferred (but Not Required) Experience: Spatialomics • RNAseq analysis • RNAscope (in-situ hybridization) • Western Blot • Hydrogel formulation