Postdoctoral Associate, Lewis Laboratory

Position Description

The Lewis Laboratory in the Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering at Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) is seeking a creative, self-directed Postdoctoral Associate to develop intravital imaging and three-dimensional immunolabeling approaches for studying neural regulation of osteocyte mechanotransduction. The Lewis Lab (https://www.kjlewislab.com) develops intravital imaging approaches to interrogate novel concepts in bone mechanotransduction.

In this position, you will take ownership of developing and applying two complementary methods: multiphoton imaging of osteocyte signaling during mechanical loading in vivo, and whole-mount immunohistochemistry to map cholinergic nerve fibers in relation to osteocytes in intact bone. You will combine these methods with mechanical loading and genetic, pharmacological, and optogenetic approaches to determine how neural signals change which osteocytes respond to force, and whether those cellular responses contribute to long-term skeletal adaptation.

Responsibilities

• Drive the project forward by developing experimental strategies, troubleshooting methods, and identifying next steps
• Lead intravital multiphoton imaging studies of osteocyte signaling during controlled mechanical loading
• Establish and refine whole-mount immunohistochemistry and related labeling methods to visualize fine features in intact bone, including the spatial relationship between cholinergic nerve fibers and osteocytes
• Integrate imaging with genetic, pharmacological, optogenetic, and biomechanical approaches to test cholinergic regulation of osteocyte responses
• Analyze and interpret data, contribute to grant proposals, and lead the preparation of manuscripts and conference presentations
• Work collaboratively with lab members and research partners, and provide informal guidance to graduate students

Qualifications

Required:

• PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biology, Neuroscience, Physiology, or a related field by the start date
• Substantial hands-on research experience in at least one relevant area, such as intravital or multiphoton imaging, immunohistochemistry, or whole-mount tissue labeling
• Demonstrated initiative and ability to independently plan, carry out, troubleshoot, and interpret experiments
• Strong scientific writing and communication skills, with the ability to contribute effectively to a collaborative research team

Preferred:

• Experience with calcium imaging, genetically encoded indicators, tissue clearing, or imaging in mineralized tissues
• Background in bone biology, mechanobiology, neuroscience, or musculoskeletal research
• Experience with mouse research, mechanical loading, optogenetics, or quantitative image analysis
• Peer-reviewed publications or other evidence of research productivity

About Cornell and the Lewis Lab

Cornell University is an Ivy League institution located in Ithaca, NY. The Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering brings engineers, life scientists, and clinicians together in a collaborative environment where fundamental biology and engineering approaches inform one another. Cornell’s research infrastructure includes the Biotechnology Resource Center Imaging Facility, with multiphoton, confocal, light-sheet, and micro-CT imaging, as well as engineering resources for biomechanics, design, and fabrication. The Lewis Lab develops intravital imaging approaches to interrogate novel concepts in bone mechanotransduction and tissue cross-talk. This project focuses on communication between bone and the nervous system, asking how cholinergic signaling tunes osteocyte mechanosensitivity and skeletal adaptation.

How to Apply

Qualified applicants should submit 1) a cover letter summarizing their background, qualifications, and interest in the position, 2) a curriculum vitae, and 3) names and contact information for three references.

Materials should be submitted online at: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/33428">https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/33428. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Inquiries may be directed to: Professor Karl Lewis, kjl235@cornell.edu.

Pay Ranges: $62,232 - $88,745

The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

• Prior relevant work or industry experience.
• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
• Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)
• Unique applicable skills.

Cornell University seeks to meet the needs of dual career couples, has a Dual Career program, and is a member of the Upstate New York Higher Education Recruitment Consortium to assist with dual career searches including positions available in higher education in the upstate New York area.

Employment Assistance:

For specific questions about the position or application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting or for general questions email mycareer@cornell.edu.

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Pay Ranges:

The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

• Prior relevant work or industry experience.
• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
• Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary unless otherwise noted)
• Unique applicable skills.