Post Doctoral Research Fellow

Site: The McLean Hospital Corporation

 

Mass General Brigham relies on a wide range of professionals, including doctors, nurses, business people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts to advance our mission. As a not-for-profit, we support patient care, research, teaching, and community service, striving to provide exceptional care. We believe that high-performing teams drive groundbreaking medical discoveries and invite all applicants to join us and experience what it means to be part of Mass General Brigham.

 

Job Summary

McLean Hospital is a comprehensive psychiatric hospital committed to providing easy access to superior quality, cost-effective mental health services in the Boston area, Massachusetts and beyond. Since 1811, McLean Hospital has been a world leader in the treatment of mental illness and chemical dependency, research into the cause of mental illness and the training of generations of mental health care providers. McLean's multidisciplinary programs treat a broad range of psychiatric illnesses across the full continuum of care.

All McLean team members are expected to consistently demonstrate our values of integrity, compassion, respect, diversity, teamwork, excellence and innovation in their work activities and interactions.

A post-doctoral fellow typically holds dual affiliations at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School.

There are many opportunities for education and growth in our multidisciplinary, collaborative research environment at McLean Hospital that brings together a diverse group of neurobiologists, clinicians, psychologists and statisticians. Please see https://www.mcleanhospital.org/research
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Job Description
With supervision and guidance, responsibilities of the Postdoctoral Research Fellow will include:
o Performs independent and highly specialized experimental procedures
o Designs and implements modifications of research protocols
o Troubleshooting problems and instructing colleagues in highly specialized techniques
o Synthesizes and interprets results
o Performs advanced data recording and analysis using various software programs and statistical techniques
o Maintaining organized and detailed records of laboratory experiments in electronic laboratory notebooks
o Presentation of results at lab meetings and national conferences
o Preparation and submission of research manuscripts to peer-reviewed journals
o Assisting with preparation of grant applications
o Other duties as assigned

A successful candidate will:
o Work independently under general direction of the Principal Investigator
o Be motivated, meticulous, organized, and detail-oriented
o Demonstrate initiative and enthusiasm for learning new techniques
o Have strong analytical and problem-solving skills
o Possess strong technical abilities and computer science skills
o Possess exceptional written and oral communication skills as demonstrated by publications and presentation
o Possess the ability to make independent and effective decisions in a timely fashion
o Possess competence in research techniques and methodologies
o Have excellent interpersonal skills
o Be a team player who works well with other lab members

Additional Job Description



Postdoctoral Fellow in Translational Neuroscience and McLean Hospital Microscopy Core Manager
The Translational Neuroscience Laboratory at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School seeks a highly motivated scientist for a combined position as a postdoctoral fellow and Manager of the McLean Hospital Microscopy Core. This position offers a distinctive opportunity to pursue research on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying psychiatric disorders while providing scientific and operational leadership for a shared advanced-microscopy facility.
Postdoctoral Research Program
The postdoctoral fellow will contribute to a multidisciplinary research program examining how stress and immune signaling affect interactions among neurons, glia, and the neurovascular unit (NVU). The NVU—including brain endothelial cells, pericytes, astrocytes, microglia, neurons, and the vascular basal lamina—is positioned at the interface between systemic and neural processes and may play a critical role in translating immune, metabolic, and other stress-related challenges into altered neural function and psychiatric symptoms.
The research investigates the hypothesis that stress-related symptom dimensions—including anxiety, irritability, depression, and anhedonia—are associated with dysregulation of NVU homeostatic reserve: the capacity of NVU cells to respond adaptively to stress and immune challenges. Studies will examine coordinated gene-expression programs across neuronal, glial, and vascular cell populations and determine how their disruption relates to clinically relevant symptom dimensions across psychiatric diagnoses.
The fellow will work with deeply characterized human postmortem brain specimens, primarily from the amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex, and with cellular preparations derived from the same donors. Molecular, cellular, and morphological findings will be integrated with transdiagnostic clinical phenotypes derived from extensive health records using natural-language-processing approaches.
Research activities may include:
• Advanced fluorescence, confocal, two-photon, and electron microscopy.
• Quantitative image analysis and three-dimensional reconstruction.
• Multiplex in situ RNA and protein detection in human brain tissue.
• Morphological and cytoarchitectonic analyses of neurons, glia, microvasculature, and other NVU components.
• Primary human astrocyte, microglial, and brain endothelial cell cultures derived from postmortem tissue.
• iPSC-derived glial and vascular cell models, including comparisons with primary cells and native tissue from the same donors.
• Experiments examining cellular responses to cytokines, stress neuropeptides, and immune or metabolic challenges.
• Single-cell or single-nucleus transcriptomic studies of brain tissue, isolated microvasculature, and cultured cells.
• Integration of molecular, cellular, morphological, and functional measures with transdiagnostic dimensions of stress-related symptoms.
The fellow will be encouraged to develop independent research questions within this program and will contribute to experimental design, data analysis and interpretation, scientific presentations, manuscript preparation, and grant applications.
Microscopy Core Management
In parallel with the postdoctoral research program, the successful candidate will manage the scientific, technical, operational, and financial activities of the McLean Hospital Microscopy Core. The Core Manager will serve as a front-line scientific resource for McLean investigators and external users, providing expert guidance on microscopy-based study design, sample preparation, data acquisition, image processing, and quantitative analysis.
The Core Manager will oversee the overall functioning of the facility, coordinate instrument access and maintenance, train and support users, supervise contracted technical services, and serve as a liaison among investigators, hospital administrative units, vendors, and external service providers. The role also includes consultation on microscopy-related methods, project feasibility, budgeting, and appropriate use of Core resources.
Transmission Electron Microscopy
Responsibilities will include:
• Maintain the Reichert-Jung ultramicrotome and ancillary TEM equipment.
• Oversee the operation and maintenance of the JEOL JEM1200EX transmission electron microscope and associated cooling systems.
• Conduct TEM studies for McLean and external investigators.
• Provide expertise in resin embedding, sample preparation, ultramicrotomy, staining, image acquisition, and image processing.
• Perform and support immuno-electron microscopy.
• Perform cryopreservation and freeze substitution of biological specimens.
• Conduct electron tomography on ultrathin sections and reconstruct tomographic datasets.
• Perform negative staining for appropriate biological samples.
• Prepare specialized sample supports, including Formvar- and carbon-coated grids, glow-discharged grids, and grids containing gold fiducial markers.
• Advise investigators on experimental design, sample suitability, controls, and interpretation of ultrastructural findings.
• Coordinate and supervise on-site contracted TEM maintenance and repair services.
Laser-Scanning Confocal Microscopy
Responsibilities will include:
• Train users in independent operation of the Leica SP8-TCS laser-scanning confocal microscope.
• Train and support users in image acquisition, processing, visualization, and quantitative analysis.
• Provide consultation on fluorophore selection, spectral separation, imaging parameters, controls, resolution, sampling, and avoidance of imaging artifacts.
• Perform confocal microscopy for McLean and external investigators when specialized assistance is required.
• Maintain the confocal microscope and associated hardware and software in optimal operating condition.
• Diagnose technical problems and coordinate preventive maintenance, repairs, and software or hardware upgrades.
• Supervise on-site contracted services related to the confocal system.
Two-Photon Laser-Scanning Microscopy
Responsibilities will include:
• Train users to operate the Olympus FV-MPE-RS two-photon microscope and Spectra-Physics InSight DeepSee Duo laser system.
• Provide guidance on experimental design, image acquisition, image processing, and quantitative analysis for two-photon applications.
• Support investigators in optimizing imaging parameters for fixed tissue, living preparations, and other appropriate applications.
• Maintain the microscope, laser system, environmental components, and associated software in optimal working condition.
• Coordinate and supervise preventive maintenance, repair, and other contracted services related to the two-photon system.
Core Operations and Research Administration
The Core Manager will:
• Develop and maintain a structured, equitable user registration and instrument-scheduling system.
• Establish and maintain instrument-specific training, authorization, and competency records.
• Develop, update, and enforce standard operating procedures for instrument use, sample preparation, data management, and laboratory safety.
• Monitor instrument usage, performance, service history, and user needs.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety, security, biosafety, chemical handling, and hazardous-waste-disposal requirements.
• Maintain adequate inventories of laboratory consumables, reagents, replacement parts, and essential supplies.
• Coordinate relationships with vendors, service engineers, contractors, and institutional administrative units.
• Assist investigators with microscopy-related study design, feasibility assessment, cost estimates, and budget preparation.
• Maintain accurate records of Core projects, users, instrument time, services, and technical support.
• Contribute to strategic planning for equipment replacement, upgrades, and acquisition of new imaging technologies.
• Promote effective and rigorous use of microscopy resources across the McLean research community.
Fiscal Management
Responsibilities will include:
• Generate and issue monthly invoices for instrument usage and Core services.
• Develop and manage the annual operating budget for the Microscopy Core.
• Track service contracts, maintenance expenses, consumables, user charges, and other Core expenditures.
• Maintain detailed and accurate financial records.
• Assist in establishing and periodically reviewing instrument and service rates.
• Provide usage and financial reports to departmental and institutional leadership as requested.
• Contribute technical information and budget estimates for grants involving Core instrumentation or services.

 

Qualifications

Candidates should hold a PhD, MD, or equivalent doctoral degree in neuroscience, cell biology, molecular biology, biomedical imaging, neuropathology, or a related discipline. The position requires substantial hands-on experience with advanced microscopy and the scientific judgment needed to guide investigators in experimental design, image acquisition, analysis, and interpretation.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Demonstrated expertise in transmission electron microscopy and/or advanced fluorescence microscopy.
• Experience with biological sample preparation, ultramicrotomy, immuno-electron microscopy, confocal microscopy, two-photon microscopy, or quantitative image analysis.
• Knowledge of microscopy instrumentation, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and quality control.
• Experience training and supporting users with different levels of microscopy expertise.
• Experience with human postmortem tissue, neuroanatomy, neuropathology, cell culture, neuroimmunology, blood–brain barrier biology, or transcriptomics.
• Strong organizational, administrative, and record-keeping skills.
• Experience with budgeting, billing, shared-resource management, or research administration.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with investigators, trainees, administrators, vendors, and external users.
• A strong commitment to experimental rigor, reproducibility, collaborative science, and responsible stewardship of shared research resources.

Training and Research Environment

The successful candidate will join a highly collaborative translational neuroscience environment at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School, with access to exceptional human brain resources, advanced imaging and genomic technologies, and multidisciplinary expertise. The combined position provides opportunities to develop an independent scientific program, acquire complementary experimental and computational skills, build expertise in research-core leadership, publish findings, present at national and international conferences, and pursue fellowship and career-development funding.

Qualifications

Candidates should hold a PhD, MD, or equivalent doctoral degree in neuroscience, cell biology, molecular biology, biomedical imaging, neuropathology, or a related discipline. The position requires substantial hands-on experience with advanced microscopy and the scientific judgment needed to guide investigators in experimental design, image acquisition, analysis, and interpretation.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Demonstrated expertise in transmission electron microscopy and/or advanced fluorescence microscopy.
• Experience with biological sample preparation, ultramicrotomy, immuno-electron microscopy, confocal microscopy, two-photon microscopy, or quantitative image analysis.
• Knowledge of microscopy instrumentation, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and quality control.
• Experience training and supporting users with different levels of microscopy expertise.
• Experience with human postmortem tissue, neuroanatomy, neuropathology, cell culture, neuroimmunology, blood–brain barrier biology, or transcriptomics.
• Strong organizational, administrative, and record-keeping skills.
• Experience with budgeting, billing, shared-resource management, or research administration.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with investigators, trainees, administrators, vendors, and external users.
• A strong commitment to experimental rigor, reproducibility, collaborative science, and responsible stewardship of shared research resources.

Strong candidates will demonstrate scientific curiosity, careful attention to experimental rigor, excellent organizational and communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Prior experience in every methodology is not required; training will be tailored to the fellow’s background and research goals.

If interested in the position, please email a cover letter, CV, and three references to Sabina Berretta, M.D. (s.berretta@mclean.harvard.edu)

EXPERIENCE: Prior lab experience required. Must have evidence of strong scientific productivity, including peer-reviewed publications. Open to highly motivated candidates with a relevant background.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: Assistance in guiding research technicians and trainees in the lab is expected.

WORKING CONDITIONS: Work will be performed in a fast-paced research laboratory environment, requiring teamwork, collaboration, and flexibility. Must be able to work independently.

 

Physical Requirements

• Standing Frequently
• Walking Frequently
• Sitting Occasionally
• Lifting Frequently
• Carrying Frequently
• Pushing Occasionally
• Pulling Occasionally
• Climbing Rarely
• Balancing Frequently
• Stooping Occasionally
• Kneeling Occasionally
• Crouching Occasionally
• Crawling Rarely
• Reaching Frequently
• Gross Manipulation (Handling) Frequently
• Fine Manipulation (Fingering) Frequently
• Feeling Constantly
• Foot Use Rarely
• Vision - Far Constantly
• Vision - Near Constantly
• Talking Constantly
• Hearing Constantly

The salary range for this position is $2,080 to $3,120,000 annually. At Mass General Brigham, we believe in recognizing and rewarding the unique value each team member brings to our organization. Our approach to determining base pay is comprehensive, and any offer extended will take into account your skills, relevant experience, education, certifications, and other essential factors. The base pay information provided offers an estimate based on the minimum job qualifications; however, it does not encompass all elements contributing to your total compensation package.

 

In addition to competitive base pay, we offer comprehensive benefits, career advancement opportunities, differentials, premiums, and bonuses as applicable, along with recognition programs designed to celebrate your contributions and support your professional growth. We invite candidates to apply, and our Talent Acquisition team will provide an overview of their potential compensation and benefits package.

 

Onsite

 

115 Mill Street

 

40

 

Regular

 

Day (United States of America)

 

1600 The McLean Hospital Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. To ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Veteran’s Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact Human Resources at (857)-282-7642.

 

Mass General Brigham Competency Framework