Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Dear Prospective Applicants,

The Manstein Laboratory at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, has two postdoctoral positions now open for application. We invite talented and motivated researchers to join our team, known for its innovative work at the intersection of engineering, dermatology, and translational science.

Why Join the Manstein Lab?

1. Competitive Compensation - We offer a salary 20% above the NIH guidelines, (NIH guidelines here).
2. Unique Funding Structure- Unlike many labs that depend on grants, most of our funding is derived from patent licensing and industry collaborations, providing a unique opportunity to gain insight into NIH-independent research and translational science—bridging the gap from bench to bedside.
3. Research Environment - As part of the Cutaneous Biology Research Center (CBRC), we collaborate with leading molecular biology labs equipped with the latest technologies. Our lab’s translational focus complements the CBRC's expertise, routinely resulting in publications in high-impact journals. (Learn more about the CBRC).

Current Research Focus

1. Mitochondrial Delivery and mRNA Technologies - Expanding our molecular biology efforts to develop novel therapeutic approaches targeting skin-related conditions and ageing.
2. Large Area Fractional Laser Treatment (LAFLT) - Building on our pioneering work, we aim to explore the broader molecular and systemic effects of LAFLT, with a special focus on aging and energy homeostasis.

What We Offer

• Access to state-of-the-art resources and a multidisciplinary team.
• A chance to work on innovative dermatological science and engineering projects.
• Opportunities to collaborate with leading academic and industry partners.

If you are interested in translational science and looking to contribute to impactful research in a supportive and dynamic environment, we encourage you to apply.

Please share this announcement with colleagues or trainees who may be interested. For more information or to apply, email your CV to mevers@mgh.harvard.edu

We look forward to having new talent join our team!

Project 1 - Mitochondrial Delivery and mRNA Technologies

Position Overview

The main project will focus on mitochondrial delivery and mRNA technologies to target various skin-related conditions, including pigmentation disorders, aging, and skin regeneration. This position will involve developing and testing advanced delivery methods, such as laser-assisted techniques and microneedles, to improve therapeutic outcomes. The work will be conducted in close collaboration with Dr. Elisabeth Roider, MD, PhD, MBA, whose expertise in dermatological research will complement this project.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments to optimize mitochondrial delivery and mRNA-based therapies for skin-related conditions.
• Explore and evaluate advanced delivery technologies, including energy-based and microneedle-assisted systems.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data using advanced methodologies.
• Collaborate closely with Dr. Elisabeth Roider’s team and other interdisciplinary research groups.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication and present findings at national and international conferences.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or a related field.
• Background in mitochondrial biology, RNA delivery technologies, or skin biology is preferred.
• Experience with laboratory techniques such as imaging, cell culture, and molecular delivery systems.
• A publication record in peer-reviewed journals is preferred.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.

Project 2 - Molecular and Systemic impact of Laser Treatments

Project Overview

Building on our findings with large area fractional laser treatment (LAFLT) and its significant metabolic effects, our next project aims to deepen our understanding by exploring the broader molecular and systemic impacts of LAFLT, with a particular focus on aging and energy homeostasis.  This research will extend beyond the metabolic parameters to investigate how LAFLT influences aging processes, modulating energy homeostasis and the immune response at a cellular level to potentially improve tissue function and longevity. By integrating various advanced molecular techniques and systemic analyses, including gene expression profiling, epigenetic markers of aging, and assessments of mitochondrial function, we will elucidate the mechanisms through which LAFLT affects not only metabolism but also the broader physiological landscape. This project promises to uncover novel insights into the potential of LAFLT as a multifaceted therapeutic approach, potentially offering new avenues for treating aging-related diseases, optimizing energy balance, and enhancing overall health. 

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects investigating the molecular and biochemical pathways involved in aging, energy homeostasis, adipogenesis, and metabolic diseases.
• Utilize advanced molecular biology techniques to explore tissue development processes and their dysregulation in metabolic diseases.
• Develop and implement in vitro and in vivo models to study laser effects on the pathogenesis of obesity.
• Analyze genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors contributing to metabolic disorders, employing genomic, proteomic, and metabolomic technologies.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to integrate findings from molecular studies with clinical insights, aiming to translate research outcomes into innovative therapeutic approaches.
• Stay informed about the latest scientific advancements in molecular biology, aging research, and metabolic disease therapeutics.
• Contribute to the writing and submitting of research manuscripts for publication and prepare grant proposals to secure funding.
• Present findings at national and international scientific meetings and participate in scientific community exchanges.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or a related field with knowledge in metabolism or a closely related field focusing on aging, adipogenesis, and metabolic diseases.
• Demonstrated expertise in molecular biology techniques and experience with tissue culture and molecular assays relevant to studying metabolic pathways.
• Strong foundation in studying aging, energy balance, and the molecular basis of metabolic diseases, including obesity.
• Experience with animal models of metabolic diseases and familiarity with metabolic assays.
• Proven track record of scientific publications in high-impact journals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions or any other characteristic protected by law.