Postdoctoral Researcher - Ellerby lab

POSITION SUMMARY
The Postdoctoral Researcher will investigate mechanisms of brain aging and neurodegenerative disease, with a focus on identifying pathways and small molecules that promote cellular rejuvenation and resilience. This role emphasizes high-throughput screening and cell painting approaches.

The successful candidate will demonstrate the potential to lead peer-reviewed publications, contribute innovative experimental strategies, and compete for external fellowships and career development awards.

LAB OVERVIEW
The Ellerby lab studies the fundamental mechanisms underlying age-related neurodegenerative diseases and develops therapeutic strategies targeting brain aging. The lab integrates cutting-edge approaches—including induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), genomics, proteomics, high-throughput small-molecule screening, single-cell analysis, and CRISPR/Cas9—to better understand disease biology and identify novel interventions.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and implement high-throughput screening strategies to identify small molecules that promote cellular resilience or reverse aging phenotypes, with a focus on OXR1 and APOE2 biology.
• Conduct high-content imaging experiments and quantitative image analysis.
• Develop and optimize high-throughput screening (HTS) workflows.
• Apply organoid and advanced in vitro model systems to study neurodegeneration.
• Operate and integrate complex robotic and multi-instrument platforms.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams at the Buck Institute to develop standardized protocols and experimental designs.
• Analyze large-scale imaging and multi-omics datasets using Python and/or R.
• Perform data integration, annotation, and visualization using appropriate computational tools.
• Present findings at lab meetings, institutional seminars, and scientific conferences.

QUALIFICATIONS
Education

• PhD in Neuroscience, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field

 Experience and Skills

• Strong cell culture expertise
• Experience with iPSC systems (preferred)
• Background in stem cell biology, neurodegenerative disease, and/or CRISPR/Cas9 technologies
• Demonstrated track record of first-author or lead-author publications
• Experience with high-throughput or high-content screening approaches (preferred)
• Proficiency in data analysis using Python, R, or similar tools
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Salary Range: $73,760-81,440 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid parental leave, childcare assistance, generous paid time off, and a 401(k) with 5% employer match
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and technologies
• Collaborative and mission-driven scientific environment

ABOUT US
The Buck Institute is dedicated to extending human healthspan by addressing the biological mechanisms of aging. As a leading independent non-profit research institute in Marin County, CA, the Buck brings together experts across multiple disciplines to prevent or delay age-related diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

The Buck Institute is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applicants who will contribute to the diversity of our community.

TO APPLY
Please submit your Curriculum vitae (CV), a cover letter describing your research interests and career goals, and contact information for 2 references. 

For Additional Information:
Professor Lisa M. Ellerby, Ph.D.
[email protected]