The Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute at the Health Sciences Campus is seeking a highly motivated Postdoc Scholar Research Associate to join the laboratory of Dr. Ali Khoshnan. The research focuses on understanding the molecular pathogenesis of Huntington's disease, a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder. The candidate will be responsible for engineering biological sensors and therapeutics and using them as tools to follow disease progression in neuronal models and human brain organoids.

The ideal candidate responsibilities will include:

*Design and perform experiments to engineer biological sensors and therapeutics.

* Conduct tissue culture techniques to create neuronal models and human brain organoids.

*Use confocal microscopy to observe disease progression in neuronal models.

*Analyze data and present findings at team meetings and scientific conferences.

*Collaborate with team members and other researchers to advance the understanding of Huntington's disease.

Preferred Qualifications:

A strong background in molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, and tissue culture techniques, proficiency in confocal microscopy and other relevant laboratory techniques, experience with designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and presenting findings, strong organizational and communication skills, and motivated and independent mindset, with a desire to learn and contribute.

The annual base salary range for this position is $62,400 - $67,000. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge of brain stem cells and neurobiology Minimum Education: PhD, MD or equivalent doctorate within previous five years Minimum Experience: 1 year Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related education in research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods. Grant Funded ~ Fixed Term Postdoc Scholar position