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Postdoctoral Research Position

A postdoctoral research fellowship is available in the laboratory of Mary Whitman, MD/PhD, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School. The Whitman lab is a young lab that provides room for growth and independence, along with mentoring by an MD/PhD clinician-scientist. In addition to professional development opportunites within the lab and the department of ophthalmology, the fellow will have ample opportunities to take advantage of the vibrant scientific community of Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School and its affiliated hospitals.

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The Whitman lab focuses on the molecular mechanisms of eye movement disorders, specifically the genetics of strabismus and the development of the ocular motor nerves. We approach these questions using a variety of cutting-edge techniques, including whole exome and whole genome sequencing of strabismus patients, modeling human genetic variants that increase risk of strabismus in human induced pluripotent stem cells, a variety of functional assays for genetic variants, slice cultures of developing oculomotor nerve, and clearing and 3D confocal microscopy of mutant mouse models. A full list of publications can be found at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/mary.whitman.1/bibliography/public/.

Requirements
Candidates should have a PhD or equivalent degree in genetics, the biological sciences, neurobiology, bioinformatics, or a related field. Candidates with an MD degree and significant research experience will also be considered. This position is ideal for a self-motivated, reliable, organized, and detail-oriented individual interested in genetics and developmental neuroscience research and working in a highly collaborative, dynamic environment.

Interested candidates should have past training and experience in one or more of the following:

  • Genetic analyses including linkage, whole genome and whole exome sequencing analysis
  • CRISPR protocols
  • Luciferase assays
  • Cell culture protocols
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Fluorescence and confocal microscopy
  • Image analysis and quantification

Application Process
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Interested applicants should submit an application by email to Mary.whitman@childrens.harvard.edu.
Required documents include:

  • Cover letter including summary of your research experience, scientific interests, and academic and career goals
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Reference list including contact information (minimum of 3)

*The Whitman lab is committed to diversity and inclusivity; Members of groups underrepresented in science are encouraged to apply.

 

Clinical/Laboratory Research Assistant I

Job Summary
We offer an opportunity to support a cutting edge ophthalmology and developmental neuroscience laboratory that is studying the genetic and molecular mechanisms of eye movement disorders. This position is ideal for a self-motivated, reliable, organized, and detail-oriented individual interested in developmental neuroscience or ophthalmology research and working in a highly collaborative, dynamic environment. The successful candidate will assume a Laboratory Research Assistant I position and will work under the supervision and mentorship of Mary Whitman, MD/PhD. Evening and weekend hours may occasionally be required.

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Principal Responsibilities

  • Enrolling and consenting patients with strabismus and their families into genetic studies
  • Follow up with families to ensure samples are received
  • Assist with genetic analyses of whole genome sequences
  • Functional studies of identified genetic variants, including cell culture techniques
  • Maintain meticulous records of experiments and analyses in lab notebook.
  • Attend and communicate experimental results at lab meetings.

Preferred Qualifications

  • B.S. in Biology or a closely related field or B.S. in Engineering, Chemistry or Mathematics with strong coursework and/or research experience in biology
  • Hands-on experience in basic laboratory techniques and operation of standard lab equipment
  • Training in sterile laboratory techniques
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to employ good judgment in prioritizing tasks in a fast-paced, high-demand environment
  • Strong computer skills including proficiency with Microsoft Office programs and willingness to learn new computer software as needed for projects; programming experience a plus
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to interact professionally
  • Ability to learn new techniques and protocols and complex tasks with general instruction
  • Intrinsic scientific curiosity and enthusiasm for developing new skills and expertise
  • Strong enthusiasm for developing new skills and expertise.
  • Two-year commitment strongly preferred

Application Process
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until position is filled. Early application is strongly encouraged.
Submit an application to Mary Whitman at Mary.whitman@childrens.harvard.edu.
Required documents include:

  • Cover letter including summary of your research experience, scientific interests, and academic and career goals.
  • Curriculum vitae.
  • Academic transcript (unofficial acceptable).
  • Reference list including contact information (minimum of 3).