POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLAR POSITIONS IN STEM CELLS BIOLOGY AND STEM CELL-BASED THERAPY

Postdoctoral positions are available at Dr. Sophie Deng’s Laboratory, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles to study corneal stem cells with an emphasis on translational application and therapeutic development.  One project focuses on elucidating the role of Wnt signaling pathway in the regulation of human corneal epithelial stem cells. Molecular and pharmacologic approaches are used to optimize the self-renewal of stem cells in vitro and in vivo.  The other project focuses on the characterization of exosomes derived from stem cells and explore their therapeutic role in the treatment of corneal diseases. Experimental approaches employed in our laboratory include molecular and pharmacologic techniques, and cell engineering. The successful applicant will also work in a multidisciplinary setting with basic scientists and clinicians to investigate the optimal conditions to regenerate and preserve corneal stem cells by modulating the molecular regulatory pathways, and to develop stem cell-based therapies for corneal diseases.

Qualified candidates should have a PhD and/or MD with a strong background in cell biology and molecular biology. We are seeking an independent and motivated individual with excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills (both verbal and written). Please send CV and names of three references to Dr. Sheyla Gonzalez at s.gonzalez@jsei.ucla.edu.