The Institute for Pediatric Urology Research Laboratory at Weill Cornell Medical College seeks an outstanding postdoctoral fellow for research seeking to further our understanding of the genetics of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), an autosomal recessive disease, resulting in inherited enzymatic deficiencies in cortisol synthesis.
The most common form of CAH is a deficiency in CYP21A2 (21-hydroxylase), accounting for over 90% of all cases. More than 100 unique mutations have been found in CAH. In Classic CAH, there is a general correlation between genotype and phenotype; however, the clinical manifestations of nonclassic disease are quite variable, suggesting that other factors (genetic, epigenetic or environmental) may affect the phenotypic expression. The current project will be focused on using the zebrafish model to study the complex genetics of CAH.
The Division of Pediatric Urology at Weill Cornell has been designated a “Comprehensive Center for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia” by the CARES Foundation. As such, we are the premier clinical center in the US for surgical and medical management of CAH patients. The studies described here will enhance our understanding of CAH and contribute to improved patient care. These experiments will be done in collaboration with laboratories at Weill Cornell that have expertise using zebrafish to model human disease.
Candidates should have a Ph.D. or M.D., with a background in molecular genetics. Additional expertise in zebrafish biology or endocrinology is preferred, but not required. Responsibilities include designing/conducting experiments, collecting/analyzing data, preparing and presenting research findings at meetings, writing scientific manuscripts, and applying for fellowships/grants. The successful candidate will be a highly motivated individual with an outstanding publication record, excellent written/verbal English communication skills, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work independently.
Applicants should contact Dr. Diane Felsen [dfelsen@med.cornell.edu] and submit curriculum vitae, brief description of research interests and accomplishments, including list of publications (published and “in preparation”), and contact information of 3 references all in a single PDF file.