The University of Pittsburgh, Baranov lab at the UPMC Vision Institute / University of Pittsburgh, is looking for a Postdoctoral Fellow to advance retinal ganglion cell transplantation in optic neuropathies. We are interested in the functional integration of stem cell-derived RGC and the role that the retinal, brain, and optic nerve microenvironment plays in this process. We are a multidisciplinary group and combine the experience in cell therapy, transplantation, stem cell differentiation, retinal development, retinal cell biology, retinal electrophysiology, and small and large animal models of disease.

We are looking for committed, enthusiastic, curious, and creative people with established lab skills. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in neuroscience, tumor biology, cell culture, imaging, electrophysiology, and animal work. The selection of the project would depend on the mutual interest/expertise and funding availability.

• Duties and Responsibilities: Proposes and undertakes a mentored, innovative project or challenge to develop novel therapies for retinal degenerative diseases. Designs and performs in vitro and animal experiments, analyzes, and presents the outcome. The day-to-day work requires to read, analyze and summarize published literature; design and execute in vitro and in vivo experiments; develop and propose novel methods and techniques; undertake relevant coursework if required by mentor; attend relevant meetings;' meet regularly with mentor to review project progress and milestones; take administrative (inventory, purchasing, etc. ) responsibilities in the lab when necessary; report or submit a manuscript to a peer-reviewed journal describing the project and results; supervise students, trainees and other lab personnel; participate in lab housekeeping activities; maintain electronic lab records; contribute to other lab projects.

• Expectations or Qualifications: MD or PhD in Scientific field, the fellow is expected to be a primary author on at least one manuscript a year and contribute to three other projects

• Opportunities Available: The lab would support registration and travel to two national and two local meetings on the first year. Future fund availability would depend on the performance.

The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.