Post doctoral studies in Myelin Research

This Post-Doctoral Associate or Research Specialist will conduct research on studies to induce remyelination in a mouse model of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in the laboratory of Dr Douglas Feinstein at the University of Illinois in Chicago, Illinois. The postdoctoral researcher will collaborate design, perform, and analyze experiments using in vitro and in vivo experimental approaches. The project involves screening and optimization of drugs that can induce remyelination in mice following chemically induced demyelination (see Dupree et al. 2022, ASN NEURO). Studies will will optimize the timing and dosage of our lead compound Lanthionine Ketimine Ethyl Ester (LKE), test if remyelination is maintained after treatment is halted; and screen newer derivatives for increased efficacy. In vitro studies will use primary oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs), examine maturation and signaling mechanisms including the role of Calcium channels and NMDA receptors. The post doctoral fellow will examine the role of the protein CRMP2, a target of LKE, using mice with conditional knockout of CRMP2 from OPCs, and siRNA treatment of cells in vitro. Functional recovery will be assessed using a battery of motor and behavior tests including rotarod, open field testing, and novel object recognition.

Duties & Responsibilities:

The post doctoral associate will carry out the majority of the above described in vitro and in vivo studies. A technician will be available to assist with these studies. Other duties and responsibilities include collecting and analyzing data, keeping current on relevant publications, writing manuscripts, presenting data at lab meetings and local neurochemistry meetings, and assisting with animal protocols. The person will assist with general lab chores, including ordering, stocking supplies, maintaining a clean environment, and working with other lab members.

Minimum Qualifications:

The candidate should have experience working with mouse models of Multiple Sclerosis, or a related neurodegenerative disease; or with working with characterization of oligodendrocytes and myelination in vitro or in vivo. The candidate should also have some experience with some of the above methods such as IHC, RNA isolation and qPCR, primary cell culture, or behavior analyses. A PhD or equivalent degree is required for the post doctoral position; having a BS or MS is needed for the Research Specialist position.