Job Description

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we're unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

Lab Overview

The Walther Laboratory, led by HHMI Investigator Dr. Tobias C. Walther at the Sloan Kettering Institute in New York City, studies the biochemistry of cellular lipid metabolism and homeostasis. Research in the lab is focused on understanding the mechanisms of lipid storage and mobilization, with members also investigating the physiology and pathophysiology of lipid metabolism in the context of cancer, neurodegeneration, and brain metabolism. The lab is an inclusive, interdisciplinary, and collaborative team with access to a wide variety of state-of-the-art technologies. For more information, visit or

About the Role

We are seeking an outstanding Postdoctoral Scientist to join the Walther Lab at SKI. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated and intellectually curious scientist to contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of lipid metabolism, brain physiology, and neurodegeneration.

The successful candidate will contribute to one of two primary research areas depending on their background and interests: investigating the interface of metabolism and brain health and how metabolic alterations impact normal brain function, or contributing to neurodegeneration and cancer-adjacent projects including research related to ALS, Alzheimer's disease, and brain metabolism. Work will involve cellular and/or mouse models depending on the project. Dr. Walther is deeply committed to mentorship and to supporting postdocs in pursuing their scientific interests and finding their path forward.

What We Provide

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive HHMI health and wellness benefits.

• Dedicated mentorship from Dr. Walther with a genuine commitment to postdoc success and scientific development.

• Freedom to pursue scientific interests within the scope of the lab's research focus.

• Opportunity to contribute to peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals.

• Experience mentoring and teaching junior lab members including graduate students and research technicians.

• Networking opportunities within an inclusive, interdisciplinary, and collaborative team environment.

• Potential to attend and present at national and international scientific conferences.

What You'll Do

• Design and execute independent research projects focused on the biochemistry of lipid metabolism, brain physiology, and neurodegeneration under the guidance of Dr. Walther.

• Work with cellular models and mouse models to investigate mechanisms of lipid storage, mobilization, and metabolic alterations in health and disease.

• Contribute to ongoing projects related to cancer biology, ALS, Alzheimer's disease, and brain metabolism.

• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data in lab meetings, internal seminars, and scientific conferences.

• Prepare and contribute to peer-reviewed manuscripts and publications.

• Collaborate actively with other postdocs, lab technicians, and members of the broader research community.

• Mentor and support junior lab members in their scientific development.

What You Bring

Required:

• A PhD in physiology, neurobiology, cell biology, biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology, or a closely related discipline.

• A strong publication record demonstrating scientific productivity and rigor.

• Genuine passion for science and a high-level commitment to integrity and professionalism.

• Strong organizational skills with excellent follow-up and attention to detail.

• Outstanding collaboration and communication skills — the ability to work effectively with others in a team science environment is essential.

Preferred:

• Background or research experience in physiology, neurobiology, molecular neuroscience, brain metabolism, ALS, Alzheimer's disease, neurodegeneration, or cell biology.

• Experience with cellular and/or mouse model systems.

• Candidates with a physics background are also encouraged to apply.

• Enthusiasm for mentorship and a collaborative, team-oriented approach to research

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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