Research Assistant Professor - Muscle Biology

University of Houston; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Houston's Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences seeks a Research Assistant Professor to investigate molecular and cellular regulators of skeletal muscle mass, regeneration, and proteostasis in cancer cachexia and other muscle-wasting conditions.

The successful candidate will work on inflammatory, metabolic, and stress signaling pathways using transgenic mouse models, multi-omics analyses, and translational studies aimed at therapeutic interventions.

Qualifications

• Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent in muscle physiology with 5+ years post-doctoral experience.
• Experience with mouse models and molecular biology techniques such as transcriptomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, or single-cell technologies.
• Ability to work independently and contribute to collaborative research efforts.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead independent research projects aligned with the laboratory's research mission
• Develop and apply advanced molecular, cellular, and physiological approaches
• Publish findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals
• Contribute to grant writing and development of extramural funding applications
• Supervise and mentor graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and research staff
• Establish collaborations within and outside the institution
• Present research findings at national and international scientific conferences

Skills

Mouse models

Molecular biology

Bioinformatics

Single-cell tech

Independent work

Education

PhD/MD or equivalent in muscle physiology

Tools

Transcriptomics

Proteomics

Single-cell technologies

Job description

Department: Pharmacological & Pharmaceutical Sciences Salary: Commensurate with experience

The Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences (PPS) at the University of Houston seeks highly qualified Research Assistant Professor to investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms regulating skeletal muscle mass, regeneration, and proteostasis in cancer cachexia and other muscle-wasting conditions.

The successful candidate will join a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary research program focused on understanding how inflammatory, metabolic, and stress-responsive signaling pathways regulate skeletal muscle homeostasis. Current projects employ a broad range of approaches including transgenic mouse models, cancer cachexia models, skeletal muscle stem cell biology, multi-omics analyses, molecular signaling, and translational studies aimed at developing therapeutic interventions for muscle wasting.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead independent research projects aligned with the laboratory's research mission
• Develop and apply advanced molecular, cellular, and physiological approaches
• Publish findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals
• Contribute to grant writing and development of extramural funding applications
• Supervise and mentor graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and research staff
• Establish collaborations within and outside the institution
• Present research findings at national and international scientific conferences

Qualifications

Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent degree in muscle physiology with minimal 5 years of post-doctoral experience in skeletal muscle biology, cancer cachexia, metabolism, inflammation, or related areas demonstrated by a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals. Experience with mouse models and molecular biology techniques such as transcriptomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, or single-cell technologies is required. The candidate is expected to have ability to work independently and contribute to collaborative research efforts.

The University of Houston is a Carnegie-Designated Tier 1 public research university and a member institution of the world-renowned Texas Medical Center (TMC), which houses major academic research programs in cancer, genetics, and neuroscience with a significant focus on translational research. The TMC also provides excellent opportunities for collaborative biomedical research. With over 49,000 students, UH offers a comprehensive range of programs across 15 colleges, fostering innovation in fields such as energy, health, hospitality, business, education, law, STEM, and the humanities. Boasting top-tier faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, student success initiatives, and a strong commitment to community engagement, UH prepares students to thrive in a globally interconnected world while contributing impactful research and innovation to the region and beyond.

The University's prime location in America's fourth-largest city supports extensive industry partnerships and experiential learning opportunities. Renowned for its Texas Medical Center, energy industry and NASA's Space Center, Houston is home to a vibrant scene with world-class museums, theaters, and restaurants. Houston thrives as a hub for innovation, education, and arts, fostering a unique blend of community charm and modern progress.

Required Attachments By Candidate

Curriculum Vitae, Cover Letter/Letter of Application, Teaching Philosophy or Statement, Research Statement, and contact information for three references.

Employees are expected to have a home address in the state of Texas for the duration of their appointments.

Official transcripts are required for a faculty appointment and will be requested upon selection of the final candidates.

All positions at the University of Houston-System are security sensitive and will require a criminal history check. Individuals conducting research in critical infrastructure areas (i.e., communication infrastructure systems, cybersecurity systems, electric grid, hazardous waste treatment systems, and/or water treatment facilities) are subject to regular review to ensure the security and integrity of the research is maintained.

The University of Houston System and its universities are Equal Opportunity Institutions. Everyone is encouraged to apply.