Postdoc Fellow in Cardiology

A postdoctoral fellow position is available in the Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine at the University of Washington to study the role of mitochondria-containing extracellular vesicles (MitoEV) in sterile inflammation associated with heart failure (HF) and type 2 diabetes (T2D).  

This is a full-time Postdoctoral Scholar position on an annual, 12-month appointment. Postdoctoral scholars are represented by UAW 4121 and are subject to the collective bargaining agreement, unless agreed exclusion criteria apply. 

The project pursues investigations in the immune-modulating roles of circulating MitoEV in sterile inflammation in chronic conditions such as HF and T2D. Specifically, studies are carried out to study the regulation and mechanism of MitoEV release from peripheral immune cells in the setting of chronic inflammation, and the tissue-specific targets of proinflammatory MitoEV.  Approaches include live-cell confocal and electron microscopy, flow analysis, mRNA/protein analyses, and genetic modifications by CRISPR-knock using cell-based and animal models.  Experience in confocal microscopy and mouse models is highly desirable. 

• Design and perform cell-based experiments (50%):
• Generation of gene-deletions monocyte line(s) by CRISPR
• Volume-metric Flow analysis to quantify released MitoEV
• Confocal and electron microscopy of subcellular structures (e.g. mitochondria-containing endosomes)
• Functional and anatomical assessment of mitochondria and lysosome using biochemical assays
• Functional assessment of mitophagy/autophagy by live-cell imaging and flow analysis

• Develop mouse models of MitoEV-induced inflammation (50%):
• Generate gene-knock out mouse line(s) and maintain mouse colonies.
• Venous injection of isolated MitoEV
• Small animal nuclear imaging studies to determine tissue tropism of injected MitoEV
• Tissue analysis of inflammation
• Trans-thoracic echocardiogram to determine LV functions

The University of Washington is a rich environment for research in cardiovascular biology and disease. The Pacific Northwest is a pleasant place to live. Competitive salary. Opportunities for post-doc level grants, such as T32, F32, and AHA post-doc fellowship.

The successful candidate must have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree relevant to biological science and a strong publication record, particularly first-authorships. Prefer applicants with predilection toward an academic career.