An early change in cardiac metabolism is considered a major culprit for diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). The metabolic shift in the diabetic heart includes reduced glucose consumption, and a switch to utilize more fatty acids for energy, a destructive adaptation implicated in cell death and DCM. The Rodrigues Lab is interested in examining the mechanism of how fatty acids are provided to the heart and how an excess can lead to cardiac disease. Appreciating this mechanism should allow the identification of novel targets for therapeutic intervention to prevent heart failure during diabetes.
A full-time postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Brian Rodrigues, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UBC. The individual will be responsible for the design and execution of research projects involved in investigating the switch in cardiac energy supply (from glucose to fatty acid) following diabetes. Applicants must therefore have extensive knowledge and experience in various lab techniques to investigate cardiac metabolism, using animal modeling, cell culture (primary endothelial cells and cardiomyocyte isolation), molecular biology, and biochemistry.
Applicants should have a PhD in pharmacology, biochemistry, or a related field with relevant experience. You will be expected to take the lead role in your projects, to publish manuscripts as a first author, and to present your projects and data at lab meetings, as well as local and international meetings. A high level of participation in a collaborative team setting is required, with a high level of self-motivation, excellent time management skills, ability to demonstrate creativity and sound judgment. Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills are preferred as the candidate is expected to work closely with graduate students. The candidate should demonstrate strong writing skills to ensure writing of quality scientific publications and grant applications. Preference will be given to those with a strong publication record. We are well-funded by our grants, and are looking for a dynamic and diligent addition to our group.
The position will remain open until filled. Please send a CV, a description of your research experience, a statement of your research interests, and the names of three referees to: Bahira Hussein bahira.hussein@ubc.ca Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences University of British Columbia 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3 www.rodrigueslab.ca
Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.