Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Cellular Metabolism

Job Title: Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Cellular Metabolism

Job Number: 89779

Location: Chicago, US

Job Description

The laboratory of Dr. Issam Ben-Sahra, an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to explore the molecular links between signaling pathways and metabolic networks, particularly in the context of cancer biology, metabolic diseases or neurodegenerative disorders.

About the Ben-Sahra Lab

Our lab investigates how key signaling pathways, such as ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinases) and mTORC1 (mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 1), regulate nucleotide metabolism and central carbon metabolism to drive cell growth, proliferation, and survival. These molecular connections are critical to understanding the metabolic reprogramming that occurs in cancer and other human diseases.

Our recent work has uncovered groundbreaking insights:

ERK-dependent regulation of nucleotide metabolism (Ali, Sahu, et al., Molecular Cell, 2020).
mTORC1-driven nucleotide synthesis pathways (Villa et al., Molecular Cell, 2021).
Metabolic connections between pyrimidine synthesis and mitochondrial metabolism (Sahu, Villa et al., Science, 2024).
We combine cutting-edge metabolomics, stable-isotope tracing, CRISPR-based screens, and in vivo models to elucidate the metabolic and signaling nodes essential for cell physiology. Our overarching goal is to identify novel therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in human diseases.

Position Highlights

We seek bright, ambitious, collaborative scientists to join our dynamic and innovative team. The successful candidate will work on exciting projects that explore the molecular mechanism by which metabolite signals or signaling pathways influence metabolic processes and cell physiology using a range of in vitro and in vivo systems.

Key responsibilities include:

Designing and conducting experiments to dissect metabolic regulation in cancer.
Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams within and beyond Northwestern.
Utilizing state-of-the-art techniques such as metabolomics, CRISPR-based approaches, and advanced imaging to investigate the regulation of cellular metabolism.
Publishing high-impact research in leading journals.
Qualifications

PhD (or equivalent) in Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or related fields.
Strong research background, including a robust publication record.
Expertise in biochemical and molecular biology techniques.
Experience with mouse models is highly desirable.
A passion for innovation, curiosity-driven research, and a collaborative spirit.
Why Join Us?

World-class resources: Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Northwestern University provides access to premier research facilities, an inspiring scientific community, and vibrant city life.
Mentorship and career development: Dr. Ben-Sahra is committed to mentoring postdoctoral fellows for success in academia, industry, or other professional paths.
Collaborative opportunities: The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics offers an interdisciplinary environment with opportunities to collaborate on transformative projects.
Competitive benefits: Northwestern University offers an excellent compensation and benefits package, including health insurance and career support services.
Application Process

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 career goals.
• Contact information for three referees, including current or previous mentors.
• Applications should be sent directly to:
  Dr. Issam Ben-Sahra
  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 April or May 2025

Join us in pushing the boundaries of our understanding of fundamental metabolism and uncovering new therapeutic frontiers!

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

Application Deadline: 2025-04-15