Research Fellow, Ann Arbor

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

An NIH-funded postdoctoral position to study cutting-edge questions about systems physiology, using a range of techniques and animal models is available immediately in the Surface Lab at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Located at the University of Michigan (on Anishinaabeg and Wyandot lands), our lab is seeking a curious and driven postdoctoral research fellow for a position in the lab of Dr. Lauren Surface. Research in the lab takes a multidisciplinary approach to understanding how the body controls mineral ion homeostasis, in health and in diseased states. We integrate a variety of techniques including genome-wide CRISPR screens, genomic analyses, metabolic flux analysis, and mouse models of disease, to pursue our questions. We encourage lab members to follow the most impactful and interesting questions, using whatever techniques are necessary.Our research involves close collaborations across disciplines including with clinicians, chemical engineers, and pharmacogeneticists. We value and celebrate diversity in background, perspective, and experience, and strive to foster a lab environment where all voices (high school student to faculty) are valued and encouraged to contribute their creativity and passion.Inorganic phosphate (Pi) plays an essential role in numerous, critical cellular functions. A major line of research in the lab seeks to identify how the body controls phosphate (Pi) homeostasis. This response is key to mineral ion metabolism and overall endocrine health. This position is best suited to someone interested in integrating genomic, cellular, molecular, and organismal approaches to investigate the cell-type specific response of mammalian cells to fluctuations in extracellular phosphate with the long-term goal of developing phosphate-modulating therapeutics. Using cell culture models, including genome-wide CRISPR screens, we are identifying genes that are necessary for sensing and responding to changes in extracellular Pi concentration. With in vivo animal models, we are connecting our findings to the broader program of organismal homeostasis, and identifying the connection between control of Pi homeostasis with control of central carbon metabolism. There are many exciting projects primed for further investigation that may be suited to future lab members’ interests. Postdocs are encouraged to pursue their own projects within this broad umbrella.Required Qualifications: Recent or anticipated PhD in a relevant field Expertise in molecular biology and tissue culture Enthusiasm for learning and asking questions Ability to work independently as well as in a group environment. Ability to mentor and guide others, including undergraduate scholarsA belief in kindness and respect for others Why Work at Michigan? The School of Dentistry is consistently ranked as the #1 dental school in the United States and the world. We embrace diversity in many forms. We champion diversity of thought and culture. Because we operate numerous health clinics we support an incredible diversity of IT systems. Our core values are Compassion, Leadership, Excellence, Responsibility, Trust, Creativity and Inclusion. U-M offers comprehensive benefits to help you stay well and to support you as you plan for a secure future. Benefits include:A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions Many choices for comprehensive health insurance Life insurance Long-term disability coverage Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses Modes of Work Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.Work Locations This position is located at the School of Dentistry at 1011 N University Ave Ann Arbor MI 48109 Background Screening The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.Application Deadline Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. This job may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended. U-M EEO Statement The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.