Postdoctoral Scientist - Walther Lab
Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Summary
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.
Job description
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.
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 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
Requirements
- PhD in physiology, neurobiology, cell biology, biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology, or a closely related discipline
- 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
- Ability to work effectively with others in a team science environment
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Wellness programs
- Retirement plans
- Paid time off
Company overview
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is a premier American non-profit biomedical research organization and philanthropy founded in 1953 by business magnate Howard Hughes. Headquartered in Chevy Chase, Maryland with additional facilities at the Janelia Research Campus in Ashburn, Virginia, HHMI is one of the largest private funding organizations for biological and medical research in the United States. With an endowment of approximately $24 billion, it ranks as the second-wealthiest philanthropic organization in the country. HHMI supports over 300 investigators at more than 60 host institutions across the nation, investing about $825 million annually in biomedical research. The institute focuses on fundamental biological research across diverse fields including genetics, immunology, molecular biology, neuroscience, and structural biology. Beyond research funding, HHMI also supports innovative science education programs, curriculum development, and public engagement initiatives to inspire the next generation of scientists. The organization operates with approximately 2,300 employees and maintains a commitment to open science, requiring immediate open access to publications from its funded research since 2022.