An opportunity is immediately available for a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Washington University Division of Nephrology. ER dysfunction and protein misfolding disease is an emerging field. The overall goals of our research are to delineate the molecular mechanisms underlying ER stress-mediated kidney diseases, including nephrotic syndrome (NS), Alport syndrome, autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease (ADTKD) and other acquired forms of ER disease, to develop ER stress biomarkers in human patients, and to identify ER stress modulators.  (JCI Insight 2(23): e92896 2017; J Am Soc Nephrol. 27: 2974-2982 2016; J Am Soc Nephrol. 24: 1223-1233 2013; J Am Soc Nephrol. 22: 849-858 2011; two patent applications related to the discovery of ER stress biomarkers). The second focus in our laboratory is to study the crosstalk between podocytes and glomerular endothelial cells (GECs) or tubular cells and peritubular capillary ECs in a variety of kidney diseases, including NS and renal fibrosis. We are using cutting-edge research approaches, including stably transfected or knock-down cells, molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, inducible transgenic, conditional knock-out and CRISPR generated knock-in mouse models, human iPSCs derived from patients, and state-of-the-art in vitro & in vivo imaging techniques. We also have access to multiple kidney disease consortium to acquire their genomic data, gene expression, histology from kidney biopsies, and urine samples.

The PI’s research has been funded by multiple grants from NIH, the Children’s Discovery Institute, American Society of Nephrology, Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, NEPTUNE etc. and industry. The lab environment is highly supportive for further scientific training and career development. The posted position is supported by a newly funded NIH R01 grant.

Required Qualifications: 

A PhD or MD/PhD degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, molecular genetics or other related fields is required. A strong background in molecular biology or biochemistry is required. Previous experience with ER biology, mouse genetic models, or kidney-related research is highly desired, but not required.

Department Summary: 

The Washington University Division of Nephrology (https://renal.wustl.edu) has been ranked top ten by US News & World Report every year since ratings began. The research environment is outstanding.

Salary Range

Commensurate with experience. Provide excellent fringe benefits.

Applicant Special Instructions: 

If you are a highly motivated researcher who determines to be successful in advancing your career and can work hard, please email a CV, a cover letter and the names of three references to:

Y. Maggie Chen, MD, PhD

Assistant Professor of Medicine
Division of Nephrology
Washington University School of Medicine
Box 8126
660 S. Euclid Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63110

Email: ychen@dom.wustl.edu