Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Cell Stress/Senescence

Job Title: Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Cell Stress/Senescence

Job Number: 90401

Location: MADISON, US

Job Description

The laboratory of Dr. Feyza Engin, an Associate Professor in the Department of Biomolecular Chemistry at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to investigate the role of beta cell senescence and ER stress in type 1 diabetes.

About the Engin Lab

Our lab investigates how beta cell intrinsic signaling especially beta cell stress (ER stress, dysfunctional UPR, senescence and altered ER-mitochondria crosstalk) and metabolism contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diabetes.

Our recent work has uncovered groundbreaking insights:

Beta Cell Dedifferentiation Induced by IRE1α Deletion Prevents Type 1 Diabetes. (Lee et al., Cell Metabolism 2020).

Adaptation to chronic ER stress enforces pancreatic β-cell plasticity. (Chen et al., Nat Communications 2022)

Stress-induced β cell early senescence confers protection against type 1 diabetes. (Lee et al., Cell Metabolism 2023)

We combine cutting-edge single cell RNA and multiomics, imaging,  bioinformatics and in vivo models to elucidate  beta cell intrinsic dysfunction and beta cell-immune cell crosstalk in type 1 diabetes (T1D) Our overarching goal is to identify novel therapeutic strategies targeting T1D.

Position Highlights

We seek bright, ambitious, collaborative scientists to join our innovative team. The successful candidate will work on exciting projects that explore mechanisms by which stress pathways alter T1D initiation and progression using a range of in vitro and in vivo systems.

Key responsibilities 

Designing and conducting experiments.
Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams within and beyond UW-Madison.
Utilizing state-of-the-art techniques such as single cell multiomics, spatial transcriptomics, and advanced imaging to investigate the heterogeneity of cell stress responses.
Publishing high-impact research in leading journals.

Qualifications

PhD (or equivalent) in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Immunology or related fields.
A robust publication record.
Expertise in biochemical, immunological and molecular biology techniques.
Experience with mouse models or human islets is highly desirable.
A passion for innovation, curiosity-driven research, and a collaborative spirit.

Why Join Us?

World-class resources, an inspiring scientific community, and vibrant city life.
Mentorship and career development: Dr. Engin is committed to mentoring postdoctoral fellows for success in academia, industry, or other professional paths.
Collaborative opportunities: An interdisciplinary environment with opportunities to collaborate on transformative projects.
Competitive benefits: UW-Madison offers an excellent compensation and benefits package, including health insurance and career support services.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a single PDF file including the following:

· Curriculum Vitae (CV) with complete publication list.

· A brief statement (1–2 pages) describing your research achievements, interests, and how you can contribute to our laboratory

· Contact information for three referees, including current or previous mentors.

· Applications should be sent directly to:
Dr. Feyza Engin
Email: [Please click the Apply button for the link or email]

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Start date expected between February – May 2025

UW Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse research community.

Application Deadline: 2025-06-01