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Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Lab of Dr. Qiaoli Li - Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Responsibilities

A full-time postdoc position is available in the Li laboratory of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Thomas Jefferson University. The Li lab's research focuses on a wide spectrum of ectopic calcification disorders affecting soft connective tissues, including the skin, eyes, kidney, and cardiovascular system. Many of these diseases, both genetic and acquired, exhibit paradoxical mineralization, with concurrent low bone mass associated with weakened bone mechanical properties. The studies involve the development of both in vitro and in vivo models of ectopic calcification and the identification of factors that promote or inhibit these processes. The postdoc will work closely with others in the lab in the field of bone and mineral research, particularly in rodent (mouse and rat) model systems.

Primary function:

To use their training in cell biology, biochemistry and molecular biology to design and execute experiments related to NIH-sponsored research projects in the lab.

Essential functions:

• Performs research consisting of a variety of analytical and technical laboratory experiments and analysis. Requires the application of complex methods and procedures where independent judgment is normally required.
• Independently develops scientific hypotheses related to ongoing work in the laboratory.
• Independently designs experiments to test hypotheses.
• Independently carries out or delegates procedures for experiments.
• Implements established standards and procedures in pursuit of research project objectives.
• Analyzes results of experiments independently.
• Performs routine and more difficult procedures, analyzes data and coherently presents results in the form of presentations, abstracts, manuscripts and the basis for grant writing, preparation and submission.
• Provides direction, training and supervision of students, visiting scholars, fellows or others engaged in research.

Qualifications

• PhD degree in cell biology and molecular biology.
• For best candidates, previous experience in any of the following areas is desired: cell culture and aseptic technique, and experience working with animals.
• Knowledge and/or experience in bone histology and mechanics studies will be viewed favorably.
• The candidates must have excellent project management, communication, and team work skills.

Closing Statement

Jefferson includes Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health, a dynamic university and health system with broad reach across the Delaware Valley. Jefferson is the second largest employer in Philadelphia and the largest health system in Philadelphia based on total licensed beds.

Through the merger of Thomas Jefferson University and Philadelphia University in 2017, our University includes ten colleges and four schools. We are an NCAA Division II university and an R2 national doctoral university offering undergraduate and graduate-level programs that provide students with a forward-thinking education in architecture, business, design, engineering, fashion and textiles, health, medicine and social science.

Jefferson Health, the clinical arm of Thomas Jefferson University, has grown from a three-hospital academic health center in 2015, to an 18-hospital health system through mergers and combinations that include hospitals at Abington Health, Aria Health, Kennedy Health, Magee Rehabilitation and Einstein Healthcare Network. We have over 50 outpatient and urgent care centers; ten Magnet®-designated hospitals (recognized by the ANCC for nursing excellence); the NCI-designated Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center (one of only 70 in the country and one of only two in the region); and one of the largest faculty-based telehealth networks in the country. In 2021, Jefferson Health became the sole owner of HealthPartners Plan, a not-for-profit health maintenance organization in Southeastern Pennsylvania. We are the first health system regionally to create an aligned payer-provider partnership.

Jefferson's mission, vision and values create an organization that attracts the best and the brightest students, faculty, staff, and healthcare professionals, as well as the most visionary leaders to drive exceptional results.

• OUR MISSION: We improve lives.
• OUR VISION: Reimagining health, education and discovery to create unparalleled value
• OUR VALUES: Put People First, Be Bold & Think Differently and Do the Right Thing

As an employer, Jefferson maintains a commitment to provide equal access to employment. Jefferson values diversity and encourages applications from women, members of minority groups, LGBTQ individuals, disabled individuals, and veterans.