Description

The Center for Genomics and Systems Biology (CGSB) at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) is seeking to appoint a full-time Research Associate with a background in high-throughput screening (HTS) and assay development for drug discovery and mechanism-of-action (MOA) studies n to work under the supervision of Professor Kristin Gunsalus.

Our lab uses HTS and high-content phenotypic profiling (HCP) of whole organisms (e.g. microbes, nematodes) and mammalian cells to identify and characterize bioactive compounds and natural products with potential application as novel biomarkers and/or therapeutics. We also seek to identify novel bioactive compounds from microbes in the Arabian Gulf region, a largely untapped and biologically uncharted source of bioactive molecules. Our HCP technology is integrated into an HTS Platform with advanced robotics and lab automation technology, designed and implemented at NYU Abu Dhabi and equipped with advanced imaging instrumentation and software for microscopic data analysis. In this role, the key responsibilities will include:

• Develop and perform cell-based assays and multi-species phenotypic screens using an established HTP and HCP platform
• Design and conduct experiments to characterize MOAs of novel compounds in different model systems
• Employ advanced imaging instrumentation and software (e.g. HTP confocal microscopes, high-content cell analysis packages) to characterize cell morphological phenotypes
• Perform functional genomic screens (e.g. RNAi, CRISPR) and genomic assays (e.g. RNA-seq, ATAC-seq) to study the biological effects of selected compounds
• Work with data scientists to analyze experimental results and develop biological insights emerging from chemical screens
• Manage an integrated robotic platform for HTP and HCS assays
• Train and supervise lab technicians engaged in screening and natural products discovery
• Participate in regular lab meetings, prepare annual progress reports, and present at scientific meetings
• Manage academic-industry partnerships and assist with development of proposals for external funding

Applicants should hold a PhD in Cell Biology, Chemical Biology, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field. They must have at least 5 years of experience in molecular, cell, and/or chemical biology, along with expertise in developing biochemical and cell-based functional assays, including design, troubleshooting, and quality control. Experience in high-throughput compound screening and mechanism-of-action (MOA) studies is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to lead a small research team and collaborate effectively with other researchers and data scientists.

The terms of employment include a highly competitive salary, housing allowance, and other benefits. This position is available from March 24, 2025 and applications will be accepted until the position is filled. To be considered, applications must be submitted through Interfolio including a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a one-page summary of research accomplishments and interests, two recommendation letters, and a transcript, all in PDF format. If you have any questions, please send your inquiries to nyuad.cgsb.chemgen@nyu.edu.

About NYUAD:

NYU Abu Dhabi is a degree-granting research university with a fully integrated liberal arts and science undergraduate program in the Arts, Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Engineering. NYU Abu Dhabi, NYU New York, and NYU Shanghai, form the backbone of NYU’s global network university, an interconnected network of portal campuses and academic centers across six continents that enable seamless international mobility of students and faculty in their pursuit of academic and scholarly activity. This global university represents a transformative shift in higher education, one in which the intellectual and creative endeavors of academia are shaped and examined through an international and multicultural perspective. As a major intellectual hub at the crossroads of the Arab world, NYUAD serves as a center for scholarly thought, advanced research, knowledge creation, and sharing, through its academic, research, and creative activities.

EOE/AA/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity Employer

UAE Nationals are encouraged to apply.