"Postdoctoral Position in Cell Biophysics in the MATSU Lab"

The MATSU lab at the University of Washington invites applications for a Postdoctoral position. This is a 100% FTE in-person position. The minimum commitment for this position is one year, with the possibility of renewal based on mutual agreement and performance.

Postdoctoral scholars are represented by UAW 4121 and are subject to the collective bargaining agreement, unless agreed exclusion criteria apply. For more information, please visit the University of Washington Labor Relations website https://hr.uw.edu/labor/academic-and-student-unions/uaw-postdocs/uaw-postdoc-contract.

We are seeking a creative, innovative, and collaborative individual to join our interdisciplinary research group. The successful candidate will conduct original research in biophysical modeling and live-cell fluorescence microscopy, focusing on the actin cytoskeleton’s role in membrane trafficking processes in human induced pluripotent stem cells.

Position Responsibilities:

• Conduct original research in cellular biophysics, particularly in the areas of the actin cytoskeleton and membrane trafficking.
• Utilize quantitative, biophysical, and computational approaches to cell biology, including fluorescence imaging, image analysis, and biophysical modeling.
• Experiment with collaborative research methods, contributing to the lab’s graph-based notetaking and knowledge base.
• Explore innovative research dissemination methods, including micropublishing, iterative preprint releases, and evidence-based knowledge graphs.

Lab Environment: The Akamatsu lab is dedicated to understanding the mechanical operating principles of the actin cytoskeleton in cellular membrane bending and trafficking. We utilize a blend of mathematical modeling, genome-editing in human stem cells, and fluorescence microscopy. Our projects aim to elucidate the emergent architectures and modes of force production of cytoskeletal networks and their adaptation to varying loads during endocytosis.

We have an engaging, supportive, and collaborative research environment, opportunities for professional development in emerging techniques and interdisciplinary methodologies, access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources at the University of Washington, and a commitment to mentorship and career growth.

Position Term Length is 12 months with an anticipated Start date 04-01-2024. The base salary range for this position will be $5,705 per month ($68,460 a year), commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage determination.

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Biology, Biophysics, or foreign equivalent by the start of employment.
• Experience in fluorescence microscopy, basic programming (Python or other languages), and/or quantitative analysis of microscopy or simulation data.
• Experience working collaboratively in teams and effectively communicate research findings.

Desired Qualifications:

• Expertise in CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing, computational image analysis (Fiji, MATLAB, Python), or biophysical/computational modeling.
• Interest or experience in nontraditional research publication methods and collaborative notetaking software (e.g., Roam Research, Obsidian, Notion).
• Familiarity with cloud computing and machine learning techniques.

Applications for this position should include a:

• Curriculum Vitae with the names and contact information of 3 references
• Diversity Statement
• Half-page summary of research experience and interests.

Review of applications will begin January 15, 2024 and continue until the position is filled. Applications will be considered through the end of February 2024.

University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, gender identity or expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status.

A summary of benefits associated with this title/rank can be found at https://hr.uw.edu/benefits/benefits-orientation/benefit-summary-pdfs/. Appointees solely employed and paid directly by a non-UW entity are not UW employees and are not eligible for UW or Washington State employee benefits.

The University of Washington is committed to building diversity among its faculty, librarian, staff, and student communities, and articulates that commitment in the UW Diversity Blueprint (http://www.washington.edu/diversity/diversity-blueprint/). Additionally, the University’s Faculty Code recognizes faculty efforts in research, teaching and/or service that address diversity and equal opportunity as important contributions to a faculty member’s academic profile and responsibilities (https://www.washington.edu/admin/rules/policies/FCG/FCCH24.html#2432).