Associate Research Scientist

Columbia University's Department of Medicine invites applications for a research position in the rank of Associate Research Scientist at The Columbia University Irving Medical Center in the Division of Molecular Medicine in the Laboratory of Dr. Ira Tabas. The position includes both laboratory and translational research.

Summary Description: Our laboratory studies the cellular biology of cardiometabolic disease, with an emphasis on the molecular-cellular mechanisms of metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and advanced atherosclerosis and the links between these processes.

We are seeking a talented Associate Research Scientist with interest and expertise in molecular-cellular mechanisms related to MASH and cardiometabolic disease, with a focus of advanced atherosclerotic lesion development. Priority will be given to candidates who have experience in these areas.

The selected candidate will conduct research on the following projects:

* MASH: We study the roles of different liver cell types in MASH development and progression, with current investigations focused on (a) links between MASH liver fibrosis and atherosclerosis; (b) new mechanistic insight into human genetic risk factors for MASH fibrosis, with current focus on MBOAT7 and CASP8; (c) mechanisms of efferocytosis in MASH; and (d) new therapeutic strategies to prevent steatosis-to-MASH progression based on our findings.

* Advanced atherosclerosis: We have focused on integrated processes that promote advanced plaque progression, with the current focus on defective clearance of the apoptotic cells (efferocytosis) and impaired inflammation resolution. In the efferocytosis field, we study a process called continual efferocytosis, whereby a macrophage ingests and degrades multiple apoptotic cells over a short time period, requiring reprogramming of vesicular trafficking pathways and metabolism of molecules from degraded apoptotic cells. The inflammation resolution project investigates cellular mechanisms of the resolution process and its therapeutic potential, e.g., through the use of atherosclerosis-targeted nanoparticles packaged with resolution mediators. An exciting new area in the lab involves identifying specific mechanistic links between impaired resolution pathways and clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP), which is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease in humans over the age of 60

Minimum Degree Required: Ph.D., MD or both

Minimum Qualifications: 2.5 years post-graduation for PhD graduates, first author high-quality publications published in first-rate journals and experience in the research areas outlined above.

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Pay Transparency Disclosure

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.