The Organization
As an independent research organization, the Morgridge Institute for Research explores uncharted scientific territory to discover tomorrow’s cures. In affiliation with the University of Wisconsin-Madison, we support researchers who take a fearless approach to advancing human health in emerging fields such as virology, advanced multi-scale fluorescence and electron microscopy, metabolism and regenerative biology. Through public programming, we work to inspire scientific curiosity in everyday life.
The Opportunity:
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Skala lab at the Morgridge Institute for Research. Dr. Skala’s lab develops new methods to understand and combat cancer using photonics-based technologies. Optical technologies are attractive for clinical translation because these techniques are inexpensive, portable, fast and provide a wealth of information on tissue structure and function. We are particularly interested in developing personalized cancer treatment strategies, and in developing more effective cancer therapies. Technology development focuses on metabolic and functional imaging of the tumor and its microenvironment. The specific project will depend on the candidate’s experience and interest as well as the needs of the lab. Most positions are interdisciplinary and will involve direct collaboration with University of Wisconsin–Madison faculty in the Carbone Cancer Center.
The objective of this research project is to develop and apply optical microscopy and analysis techniques to quantitatively monitor metabolic and structural changes in cancer that predict drug response. Measurements will be made in mouse models of cancer in vivo, and in human patient samples maintained in 3D cultures (“organoids”). The Postdoctoral Researcher will work with multiphoton and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy in collaboration with engineers, clinicians, and biologists. The person in this role will have access to state-of-the-art resources in biomedical photonics, and opportunities to develop other photonics techniques including high-throughput microscopy, optical coherence tomography, and spectral imaging. This position will also provide a unique opportunity to gain experience in a multidisciplinary research environment.
Qualifications:
Candidates should hold a doctoral degree in an appropriate field of engineering, the physical sciences, or biology (with quantitative expertise). The applicant must be a capable experimentalist and have experience with microscopy and biological samples. Previous experience in fluorescence microscopy and/or cell culture and small animal studies is particularly helpful. Excellent organizational and communication skills are a must. The initial appointment will be for a one-year period, with possibility of extension.