Postdoctoral Scholar -Research Associate

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. USC is consistently ranked among the nation’s most prestigious universities, and the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology features one of the world’s best degree and research programs in gerontology. The USC Davis School has an international reputation as a hub of aging research and, with additional strong programs throughout the university, leads the way in defining and advancing the field of gerontology.
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The laboratory of Dr. Marc Vermulst is interested in hiring a highly motivated, talented post-doc to support its efforts in understanding the molecular basis of human aging. The successful applicant will be responsible for growing the research program by investigating the molecular and cellular origins of Alzheimer’s disease and other diseases associated with protein misfolding and protein aggregation. We examine these diseases from a new perspective, of transcriptional mutagenesis, which we believe plays a crucial role in the development of non-familial cases of these diseases and the pathology associated with aging. These experiments will initially focus on the impact of transcription errors on proteostasis in human cells, but it is expected that the successful applicant will ultimately steer this project into exciting new directions to acquire independent funding. The ideas that underlie this research project are closely related to those that underlie mutation research, so some experience in mutation research is highly desirable. To support the research team, experience with neuronal cell culture, cell differentiation and lentiviral transductions is also desirable. The research environment in the Vermulst laboratory is highly collaborative, provides a broad platform for scientific development, and encompasses numerous biological disciplines. As a result, it is an excellent incubator for the growth of new ideas. It is further expected that this project will result in numerous high-profile publications, which will further fuel career development. Please note that a desire to learn, good communication skills, and a willingness to work with others is required for being successful in this research environment.

This is a full-time exempt/salary position who will be expected to work at least 40hrs a week. This position is funded by a research contract/grant and may be funded by a subsequent contract/grant.  Accordingly, your position is contingent upon receipt of the necessary funding from this or any subsequent contract/grant to continue employment.  ​

The annual base salary range for this position is $64,480-$67,000. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Benefits include a competitive salary, a rich array of USC benefits including healthcare (through the postdoctoral plan) national holidays, paid vacation and more. Again, this is a full-time salaried position that will require substantial commitment and flexibility.

If you are interested, please submit your fully completed application. Please include a cover letter and resume with references. Thank you for your interest!

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USC is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring ordinance. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities.

Minimum Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within previous five years Minimum Experience: 0-1 year Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related education in research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods.