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Postdoctoral Position in Quantitative Cell Biology in the MATSU lab

University of Washington
United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 12 Oct 2025
💰 $68,460/yr

About the role

Description

The MATSU lab at the University of Washington invites applications for a Postdoctoral position. We are seeking a creative, innovative, and collaborative individual to join our interdisciplinary research group. The successful candidate will conduct original research in quantitative live-cell fluorescence microscopy, focusing on the actin cytoskeleton’s role in membrane trafficking processes in human induced pluripotent stem cells. Anticipated start date is January 1st 2025.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Conduct original research in quantitative cell biology, particularly in the areas of the actin cytoskeleton and membrane trafficking.
  • Utilize quantitative approaches to cell biology, including human stem cell culture, transfection fluorescence microscopy and image analysis

Lab Environment: The Akamatsu lab is dedicated to understanding the mechanical operating principles of the actin cytoskeleton in cellular membrane bending and trafficking.  We utilize a blend of biophysical modeling, genome-editing in human stem cells, and quantitative fluorescence microscopy. Our projects aim to elucidate the emergent architectures and modes of force production of cytoskeletal networks and their adaptation to varying loads during endocytosis.

We have:

  • An engaging, supportive, and collaborative research environment.
  • Opportunities for professional development in emerging techniques and interdisciplinary methodologies.
  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources at the University of Washington.
  • A commitment to mentorship and career growth.

Compensation:
This is a 12 month service period position with 100% FTE. The base salary for this position will be $5, 705 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage determination. This position is paid by the University of Washington.

 

Postdoctoral scholars are represented by UAW 4121 and are subject to the collective bargaining agreement, unless agreed exclusion criteria apply. For more information, please visit the University of Washington Labor Relations website. https://hr.uw.edu/labor/academic-and-student-unions/uaw-postdocs/uaw-postdoc-contract

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • PhD in Biology, Biophysics, or a related field foreign or equivalent, by the start of employment.
  • Experience in fluorescence microscopy and/or quantitative image.
  • Experience working collaboratively in teams and effectively communicate research findings.

Desired Qualifications

  • Background in DNA plasmid assembly methods (i.e. cloning) and cell culture (transfection/transduction)
  • Background in CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing, computational image analysis (Fiji, Python), and/or high-performance computing.
  • Interest or experience in nontraditional research communication methods and collaborative notetaking approaches (e.g., Roam Research, Obsidian, Notion).

Application Instructions

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

 

Candidates from diverse educational or professional backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, gender identity or expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status.

Benefits Information

A summary of benefits associated with this title/rank can be found at https://hr.uw.edu/benefits/benefits-orientation/benefit-summary-pdfs/. Appointees solely employed and paid directly by a non-UW entity are not UW employees and are not eligible for UW or Washington State employee benefits.

Commitment to Diversity

The University of Washington is committed to building diversity among its faculty, librarian, staff, and student communities, and articulates that commitment in the UW Diversity Blueprint (http://www.washington.edu/diversity/diversity-blueprint/). Additionally, the University’s Faculty Code recognizes faculty efforts in research, teaching and/or service that address diversity and equal opportunity as

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