Postdoctoral Position - University of California, San Diego

Postdoctoral project:         Autophagy of lipid droplets in yeast or ZEBRAFISH

 

Academic institution:        University of California, San Diego

Academic division:            Division of Biological Sciences

Academic unit:                  Section of Molecular Biology

 

Description: Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in the group of Taras Nazarko studying mechanisms of lipophagy, the selective autophagy of lipid droplets (LDs). Lipophagy is accomplished by delivery of LDs from the cytosol to the lysosome (or vacuole in yeast). As in other autophagic pathways, the core autophagic machinery forms the autophagic isolation membrane that sequesters the LD from the cytosol. However, how this autophagic membrane recognizes the LD after lipophagy induction is unknown. Also, it is not clear how lipophagy is kept in check the rest of the time. Therefore, lipophagy selectivity and regulation are the key gaps in our understanding of this pathway. A postdoctoral scholar will develop a project in one of these areas. Mechanistic understanding in these areas is critical for the precise control of lipophagy in humans for the prevention and treatment of various lipid accumulation diseases, like atherosclerosis and obesity. Initial appointment is for 1 year with possible extension for up to 5 years of overall postdoctoral training. Salary is commensurate with experience (NIH NRSA scale).

 

Applicant requirements: The successful applicants will have a recent PhD in biochemistry, genetics, molecular or cell biology and a strong background in either yeast or ZEBRAFISH genetics, protein biochemistry and fluorescence microscopy. Expertise with mammalian cells is a plus but not essential. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in AUTOPHAGY or LIPID DROPLETS.

 

 

How to apply: Please send your CV, a brief (1-2 paragraphs) statement of research interests and contact information of 3 references to Taras Nazarko, tnazarko@ucsd.edu