A position is open for a Postdoctoral Researcher with a strong background in cell/molecular biology and neurodegenerative disease to join the research laboratory of Dr. Annie Hiniker, Associate Professor of Pathology, University of Southern California. Applicants should hold (or soon receive) a Ph.D. in cellular/molecular biology, neurosciences, or a related discipline. This NIH-funded research project will study the cellular function and regulation of LRRK2 and mechanisms of LRRK2-associated Parkinson's disease pathogenesis. The Postdoctoral Scholar will design and execute molecular and cellular assays to study putative genes and cellular pathways that may regulate LRRK2 activation and degradation. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in molecular biology and biochemistry, Parkinson's disease and neurodegenerative disorders, as well as pathways involved in protein degradation and proteostasis. Research Description The Hiniker lab uses cell biology and neuropathology to identify molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative disease. A major focus of the lab is the cell biology and neuropathology of LRRK2-driven Parkinson's Disease. The focus of this project is to identify pathways involved in LRRK2 degradation and test their role in LRRK2-mediated neurotoxicity using cell and molecular biology, transcriptomics and immunostaining of human brain tissue, and collaborative work studying LRRK2 in iPSC-derived neurons and direct induced neurons. Research Activity * Molecular biology and biochemical methods including tissue culture, immunoblotting, qPCR * Immunohistochemistry and microscopy studies on brain tissue and cell culture systems * Live-cell and fixed cell imaging of neuronal/immune cell physiology * Analysis of transcriptomic data with guidance from collaborator * Prepare and write manuscripts for publication This is a Fixed-Term position- 12 months - (Renewable after one year upon Pi's discretion) This position is Grant Funded Salary Range: The annual base salary range for this position is $70,000- $80,327. 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." 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. Strong background in computer programming, mathematical modeling is required. Preferred Education: * PhD or equivalent doctorate in molecular biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, or related areas * Strong publication record * Expertise in gene overexpression and knockdown, molecular and biochemical techniques, immunoblotting and immunofluorescent microscopy. USC is a smoke-free environment 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 records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law. * Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report * Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Plan * Pay Transparency Non-Discrimination * USC is an E-Verify Employer * Digital Accessibility If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser: https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$114008.htmld