Research Associate-Sun Lab

The Sun Lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to investigate protein aggregation and neurodegeneration using directly reprogrammed human neurons . The Sun Lab focuses on understanding the mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases by developing and applying 3D direct neuronal reprogramming, an innovative approach that converts human skin fibroblasts directly into functional neurons in vitro. This technology enables the generation of patient-derived human neurons while preserving donor-specific genetic and age-related characteristics, providing a powerful platform for studying human neurodegenerative disease pathology in a dish ( PMID : 39088624; PMID : 42270887). The Sun Lab is also affiliated with the Center for Alzheimer’s and Neurodegenerative Diseases ( CAND ) at UT Southwestern Medical Center. For more information about the Sun Lab, please visit the Sun Lab website ( This position is supported by a newly funded federal APAR -H award through the BIOGAMI program, with four years of funding ( The project aims to investigate mechanisms of protein aggregation and develop approaches to target pathological protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, etc.) The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge human cellular models and multidisciplinary approaches to investigate protein aggregation, neuronal dysfunction, and neurodegeneration. The project offers substantial opportunities to develop expertise in human disease modeling, direct neuronal reprogramming, protein biochemistry, molecular and cellular neuroscience, and translational research. The position is fully funded through September 30, 2030, with opportunities for continued support through future projects, subject to funding availability. Minimum Education and Experience Ph.D in a related field. Candidates who have successfully completed all requirements for the Ph.D. but whose degree has not yet been formally conferred may be eligible to begin employment provided they submit an official letter from the Registrar or Graduate School of the degree-granting institution certifying that all doctoral requirements have been satisfied and specifying the expected date of conferral. Appointment and continued employment are contingent upon formal conferral of the Ph.D. Preferred Education and Experience Ph.D in neuroscience or stem cell technology. Proven track record of publishing scientific papers and delivering presentations. Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and enthusiastic about collaborative research. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Hands-on experience in: Mammalian cell culture, generation of lentiviruses RNA -Sequencing, ATAT -Sequencing, and other computational analyses Molecular biology techniques such as immunostaining, confocal microscopy, qRT- PCR , and Western blotting Other Qualifications To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Plan, design, and execute experiments related to the research project. Collaborate as a member of the APAR -H BIOGAMI team, a multidisciplinary consortium involving more than 20 research laboratories, to design experiments, test hypotheses, and validate experimental predictions. Analyze, interpret, and communicate experimental results. Prepare research reports and present findings at national and international scientific conferences. Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Mentor and provide guidance to graduate and undergraduate students. Contribute to a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment. Physical Demands and Working Conditions Extended period of standing/stooping in a laboratory setting and sedentary computer work. Additional Information Remote Work Notice : Work is conducted on-site and in-person UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer an employee-friendly work environment with a comprehensive benefits package including: What We Can Offer Tuition Benefits BCBS PPO Medical Insurance Options – including 100% paid employee medical coverage for full-time employees Optional Long and Short-term Disability Fertility Benefits Paid time off All UT Dallas employees have access to various professional development opportunities, including a membership to Academic Impressions, LinkedIn Learning, and UT Dallas Bright Leaders Program. UT Dallas is a top public research university located in one of the nation’s fastest-growing metropolitan regions. Our seven schools offer more than 140 undergraduate and graduate programs, plus professional certificates and fast-track programs. Our student body is 31,000 strong, reflecting students from over 100 countries and a multiplicity of identities and experiences. UT Dallas is committed to graduating well-rounded members of the global community whose education has prepared them for rewarding lives and productive careers in a constantly changing world. Rich with visual and performing arts venues, museum districts, professional and semi-professional athletics teams, botanical gardens, accessible trails and so much more, the Dallas-Fort Worth ( DFW ) metroplex has something for everyone to explore. UT Dallas partners with regional higher education institutions and school districts and with the Richardson Innovation Quarter (Richardson IQ), a major hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and educational activities. Let us be your employer of choice! Special Instructions Summary

1. All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public.
2. The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. UT Dallas is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator .

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