Postdoctoral Scientist - Lewis Lab

Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation; Oklahoma City (OK); On-site; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement contribution

Onsite fitness center

Job summary

A leading biomedical research institute in Oklahoma City is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Scientist to explore mitochondrial roles in neurons. This position involves in-depth research using advanced techniques, with a supportive environment for career development and mentorship. Candidates are expected to have a Ph.D. in relevant fields and experience in molecular biology. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits are provided, with opportunities for relocation assistance.

Qualifications

• Must have a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent degree.
• Should be highly motivated and enthusiastic about science.
• Must work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Study roles of mitochondria in neurons.
• Utilize in vitro and in vivo techniques.
• Prepare and analyze experimental data.

Skills

Familiarity with molecular and cell biology lab techniques

Detail-oriented

Excellent communication skills

Time management

Education

Ph.D. in biological science, chemistry, physics, or relevant area

Job description

Position Overview & Responsibilities

The laboratory of Dr. Tommy Lewis in the Aging & Metabolism Research Program at Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scientist to study the unique roles of mitochondria in neurons. The lab is interested in understanding how compartmentalization of mitochondrial structure and function (or its loss) underlies neuronal development, aging and neurodegeneration.

To accomplish this goal, the lab makes use of both in vitro and in vivo techniques including two‑photon microscopy on anesthetized and awake behaving mice, in utero electroporation, genetic or viral targeting of defined cell types, and proteomics. We welcome candidates who are driven to ask fundamental questions about mechanisms underlying local mitochondrial remodeling.

The lab is well equipped and is funded to support potential projects in this area via an R35 grant from NIGMS. There is also the potential for qualified applicants to be accepted onto an NIA funded T32 training grant fellowship.

The Postdoctoral Scientist will be part of a strong and expanding community of scientists at OMRF and the Oklahoma University Health Sciences Campus (OUHSC) interested in mitochondrial and aging biology. OMRF is located adjacent to the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC) campus in Oklahoma City.

Resources

• Two‑photon microscope for live slice or intravital imaging
• Widefield microscope setup for 4‑channel, fast live imaging experiments
• Surgery suite for stereotaxic injection or in utero electroporation
• Metabolomics and mitochondrial functional assays

Mentorship and Career Development

• Scheduled mentorship from PI and postdoctoral advisory committee
• Opportunity to develop independent research questions
• Support for fellowship applications
• Opportunities to mentor trainees and develop leadership skills
• Yearly conference attendance to promote networking

In addition to completing the online application, candidates should send a brief email and CV to [e-mail] describing their relevant experience and interest in the lab.

Lab website: https://lewis.omrf.org

Minimum Requirements

• Ph.D. in a biological science, chemistry, physics or other relevant area, M.D., or equivalent degree.
• Should be familiar with standard molecular and cell biology lab techniques.
• Highly motivated and enthusiastic about science.
• Must be detail‑oriented, organized, and able to work independently, as well as part of a team.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate and write summaries of results.
• Must be efficient with time and project management.
• Must have the ability to multi‑task and work both independently and as a member of an interdisciplinary team with complementary skill sets.

Preferred Qualifications

• Significant experience working in the fields of neuro or cell biology is preferred.
• Previous experience with optical imaging or stereotaxic injection in mice is highly preferred.

OMRF Overview

Founded in 1946, the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF) is among the nation’s oldest, most respected independent, non‑profit biomedical research institutes. OMRF is dedicated to understanding and developing more effective treatments for human diseases, focusing on critical research areas such as Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and cardiovascular disease. OMRF follows an innovative cross‑disciplinary approach to medical research and ranks among the nation’s leaders in patents per scientist. OMRF is adjacent to the campus of the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC) in Oklahoma City. OMRF investigators have internationally recognized expertise in autoimmunity, immunology, genetics, aging, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. ... Successful candidates will demonstrate commitment to our mission, “so that more may live longer, healthier lives.”

OMRF Benefits

• Competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits to full‑time employees including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a minimum 8 % company retirement contribution, vacation and sick leave, and paid holidays.
• All employees have access to our onsite café, free onsite fitness center with access to a personal trainer, free parking, and more.
• Relocation assistance available for those located 50 mi outside of Oklahoma City metro.

OMRF is an Equal Opportunity Employer.