Postdoctoral position in Translational Immunology in Singh Lab at SDI
The Singh laboratory for Comprehensive Immune Studies (CIS) within Schulze Diabetes Institute at Medical School, UMN is looking for full-time postdoctoral fellow in the field of translational Immunology for an NIH funded project focus on understanding functional effects of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) on immune systems. We are a laboratory that support and conduct hypothesis-driven research at both the basic and translational levels, with a clear focus on advancing human health. Our overarching mission is to delve deep into the complexities of the immune system, aiming to pinpoint the central regulators responsible for orchestrating inflammation, Immunity, and tolerance to transplant tissues (islet and kidney). Using primary human
sample, preclinical model of NHPs, we pave the way for groundbreaking discoveries in immune features that can serve as invaluable biomarkers, ultimately contributing to an enhanced state of human health.
Summary of Position:
The Transplantation Tolerance Laboratories (TTL) within the Schulze Diabetes Institute (SDI) in the Department of Surgery is looking for an outstanding and highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate with a passion for exciting state-of the art technology that explores the world of single cells using mass cytometry. Overall, the SDI/TTL lab is interested in understanding to what extent VNS alters the immune system and impacts protective immunity. The candidate will perform deep immune profiling and single-cell ATAC/RNA-seq before and after VNS device implantation to determine whether i) baseline immune signatures predict the response to VNS, ii) clinical improvements correlate with distinct immune system signatures, iii) VNS ameliorates depression and epilepsy by modulating the underlying autoimmunity, iv) changes in immune responses to VNS are stable or fluctuate over time, and v) VNS device parameter settings can be
personalized based on immune system profiling for enhanced efficacy.
Candidates will have the opportunity to engage in NIH-funded on-going translational and/or observational cohort studies and develop their own project within the ongoing research in a fast-paced behavioral research environment. This position requires letters of support from at least two colleagues/supervisors.
This individual will work with a team of translational immunologists and report directly to Amar Singh, Ph.D, Assistant Professor, within the SDI in the Department of Surgery.
The individual will perform duties and responsibilities as a post-doctoral researcher in the TTL. General laboratory functions are also expected of this position.
About the Study
In this large-scale clinical study, the candidates will work with interdisciplinary team of
PIs and Co-Is join for NIH-funded Research Evaluating Vagal Excitation and Anatomical
Links (REVEAL) project that will take place over three years. REVEAL aims to study the
anatomical connections and functional effects (the cardiovascular, metabolic, autonomic
nervous and immune systems) of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), which is an FDA-
approved treatment for epilepsy and depression.
The position responsibilities include:
Comprehensive immune phenotyping assay to decipher how do VNS modulate the immune response in patients with suspected autoimmune depression and autoimmune epilepsies (75%)
Required Qualification:
Preferred Qualifications:
Committed to innovation and diversity, the Medical School educates physicians, scientists, and health professionals; generates knowledge and treatments; and cares for patients and communities with compassion and respect. We value excellence, inclusiveness, collaboration, and discovery.
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