Post Doctoral Fellow-Sickle Cell, Dr. Francesca Vinchi

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Description

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to join our research program focused on sickle cell disease and other hematologic disorders. The candidate will work within a multidisciplinary environment at the interface of pediatric hematology, molecular biology, and translational research.POSITION OVERVIEW:

• Title: Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Hematology and Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine
• Location: Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Health Sciences Research Building I, Atlanta, GA
• Lab/PI: Dr. Francesca Vinchi’s lab
• Focus: Investigating heme/iron dyshomeostasis in hematologic disorders (with a focus on sickle cell disease) and its contribution to disease pathogenesis and pathophysiology using translational models and omics/single-cell technologies.

POSITION SUMMARY:The position is responsible for research aimed at investigating mechanisms of heme/iron-driven toxicities in sickle cell diseases. Under the guidance of the PI, Dr. Vinchi, the research fellow will study the impact of heme and iron overload on the pathophysiology of sickle cell diseases as well as the pathogenesis of other human hematological diseases. The candidate will perform cutting-edge research that integrates hematology and immunology with novel therapies using innovative technologies and approaches including classic molecular, cellular, and biochemical techniques, as well as modern imaging techniques, RNA sequencing and metabolomics at bulk and single cell levels, bioinformatics, and preclinical in vitro and in vivo models.RESEARCH FOCUS AND GOALS:

• Understanding heme/iron-driven molecular mechanisms of altered hematopoiesis, immune activation and vascular dysfunction and their implications in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of sickle cell disease and other hematologic diseases.
• Studying heme/iron metabolism, hematopoiesis, and immunology in inherited or acquired anemias.
• Applying cutting-edge methods, including cell culture, mouse modeling and in vivo/ex vivo mouse experiments, flow cytometry, scRNA-seq, metabolomics, real-time PCR, western blotting, in vitro hematopoietic assays.
• Modifying heme/iron-related pathways through therapeutic compounds in collaboration with pharmaceutical/industry partners.
• Contributing to translational science, helping to shape mechanistic biological insights that feed into new clinical trials in the field of hematology.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work independently on a research project under the supervision of the Lab Head
• Daily molecular bench work
• Working with mice and performing in vivo experiments on a regular basis
• Managing mouse colonies, including genotyping
• Working with mammalian cell culture (primary and cell lines), including human bone marrow and peripheral blood cells.
• Maintaining lab files related to the general lab and research experiments.
• Reporting research progress while maintaining up to date knowledge of literature in relevant fields.
• Summarizing experimental data, assist in drafting figures, results and methods for presentations, publications and grants.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• Helps design and conduct research within a specified field while receiving advanced training from a designated Principal Investigator to enhance professional skills and research independence needed for pursuit of a career.
• The specific area of research in which the trainee is mentored is determined by the department and laboratory of the Postdoc.
• Designs and evaluates experiments.
• Develops new ideas that promote current research.
• Prepares and publishes scientific manuscripts under the direction of the Principal Investigator.
• May be responsible for operation of specific equipment.
• May teach techniques to others, train, and supervise research staff.
• Positions are temporary appointments as a research trainee.
• The initial appointment is for one year, renewal expected if progress is satisfactory and funds are available.
• Appointments cannot exceed five years.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• A doctoral degree or equivalent (Ph.D., M.D., ScD., D.V.M., DDS etc) in an appropriate field.
• Excellent scientific writing ability and strong oral communication skills.
• The ability to work effectively and collegially with colleagues.
• Additional qualifications as specified by the Principal Investigator.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• PhD or MD/PhD in hematology, cell biology, molecular biology, or related field.
• Prior experience with mouse models, basic molecular biology techniques, and cell-based assays
• Strong record of productivity and peer-reviewed publications.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative research environment.
• Ability to perform experiments independently under PI’s guidance, provide input into experimental design, identify problems in a timely manner, evaluate options and implement solutions.

OPPORTUNITIES:

• Mentored training in a NIH-funded, high-impact research program.
• Access to unique resources at Emory School of Medicine, including state-of-the-art core facilities,  clinical collaborators, and partnering institutions like Georgia Tech.
• Participation in career development programs and academic training workshops at Emory and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
• Opportunity to work on industry-relevant translational projects with real patient samples and preclinical models.
• Collaboration with oncologists, hematologist, and drug developers.

HOW TO APPLY:Submit your application online via Emory Careers, including:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter outlining your research interests
• Contact information for three referees
• Inquiries can be sent directly to francesca.vinchi@emory.edu

NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.

Additional Details

Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).

Emory University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at 404-727-9877 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). Please note that one week's advance notice is preferred.