Postdoctoral Fellowship - Musculoskeletal Biology

Job description

Job Description

A global healthcare leader, Novartis has one of the most exciting product pipelines in the industry today. A pipeline of innovative medicines brought to life by diverse, talented, performance driven people. All of which makes us one of the most rewarding employers in our field. Under the umbrella of the Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research (NIBR), the Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation (GNF) located in San Diego, California, has the support of a broad collaboration with the entire Novartis research organization, while maintaining the independence to initiate and drive independent research programs.

The Postdoctoral Fellowship position in the Musculoskeletal Biology group is to provide comprehensive training in the basic science and translational aspects of drug discovery, and to help the Institute address areas of high unmet medical need through world-class discovery biology. The successful candidate will join a high-energy, dynamic group focused on disease mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities in the musculoskeletal system. The group provides a strong intellectual environment within a supportive and collegial atmosphere.

Current topics of interest in the lab include the biology of muscle stem cells and other progenitor populations, and their role in sarcopenia, dystrophy, and aging. The contribution of metabolic/neuronal dysfunction and degenerative host responses (fibrosis, atrophy) is also of significant interest, as is the development of novel technologies for in vitro/in vivo screening. This work is accelerated by constant collaborative interaction with biology, chemistry, and bioinformatics colleagues within GNF, as well as with external academic collaborators. There is a heavy emphasis on mouse models, supported by access to cutting-edge forward and reverse genetic techniques. The successful applicant will develop a project in collaboration with the lab heads, with an emphasis on biological novelty, translational relevance, and publication potential.

EEO Statement

The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers and take pride in maintaining a diverse environment. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Desired profile

• Ph.D., M.D., or M.D./Ph.D. with significant expertise in some aspect of mammalian stem cell biology, as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals. Experience with muscle biology would be very helpful but is not absolutely required.
• Thorough familiarity with mammalian genetics, primary cell culture, and basic molecular/cell biology is required. Experience with flow cytometry, bioinformatics, or microscopy techniques is also desirable.
• Significant experience with mouse genetics and small animal handling. Familiarity with reverse genetic/gene editing approaches is advantageous.
• Outstanding communication skills, with demonstrated ability to work both independently as well as collaboratively.