Postdoctoral Research Opportunity – Biomarker Operations, Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative

October 14, 2025

Position Title: Postdoctoral Fellow / Junior Research Faculty – Biomarker Operations, PPMI Study

Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid/On-site)

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented scientist to join our team in supporting the operational flow of currently approved biomarker portfolio projects. This role is ideal for a postdoctoral fellow or junior research faculty member with a strong background in biomarker assay development and translational neuroscience. The successful candidate will play a key role in implementing and managing large-scale biomarker projects in the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI).

Key Responsibilities

• Provide operational, and technical support for biomarker-related components of the PPMI study.
• Design and implement large-scale sample studies, incorporating rigorous study design elements such as quality control (QC) samples, bridging samples, and reproducibility assessments.
• Communicate effectively across functions to facilitate operational workflow and data return on the biomarker projects
• Make recommendations for future biomarker project opportunities within the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI)
• Contribute to scientific publications, presentations, and grant proposals.
  
  

Qualifications

• PhD or MD/PhD in neuroscience, molecular biology, bioengineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in biomarker assay development and validation using human biospecimens.
• Experience with multiple biomarker platforms, including immunoassays and multiplexed discovery platforms and translational research workflows.
• Strong understanding of study design principles for large-scale biomarker studies.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Prior experience in translational research in Parkinson’s disease is desirable but not required.
  
  

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with data quality standards in biomarker research.
• Experience with biostatistics or bioinformatics tools for biomarker data analysis.
• Knowledge of clinical trial operations and longitudinal cohort studies.
  
  

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, underrepresented racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States.