Position Details
Title Postdoctoral Appointee Specific Title Appointment Type Postdoctoral Fellow Department IUSM - Ophthalmology Campus IU School of Medicine Indianapolis Position Summary
A Postdoctoral Appointee position is available in Dr. Tasneem Sharma's lab at the Department of Ophthalmology and Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine. We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative Postdoctoral Researcher to join our pioneering efforts in aerospace medicine and space biology at the Indiana University School of Medicine. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research investigating the physiological and psychological impacts of spaceflight. Our program focuses on human analog studies to simulate microgravity and explore countermeasures, including neuro-ocular health interventions.
SUMMARY: The successful candidate would require expertise in the application and adaptation of various research techniques and procedures. Coordinate laboratory activities and maintain the progression of research projects. Supervise research technicians and student employees. Participate in protocol development, data analysis and report/manuscript preparation.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Designing, performing, and/or overseeing experiments and data collection.
2. Conduct a wide range of complex experiments with a degree of independence in conducting aerospace research.
3. Perform complex techniques or procedures including but not limited to:
a. Utilizing confocal, fluorescence and live microscopy to image tissue and cells.
b. ELISA, mass spectrometry, and multiplex assays for protein and metabolite profiling.
c. Having in-depth knowledge on genomic and transcriptomic techniques such as qPCR, RNA-Seq, and microarray for studying gene expression changes in microgravity conditions.
d. Ability to perform cell culture and tissue models such as 3D tissue models and microfluidic systems to simulate microgravity.
e. Understanding and experience with oxidative stress and mitochondrial function assays which include measuring reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial bioenergetics.
f. Simulating microgravity conditions to study physiological responses.
g. Assessing fluid distribution in microgravity analogs.
h. Techniques such as optical coherence tomography, fundus photography, cardiovascular monitoring, muscle and bone assessment to evaluate ocular health would be preferable
4. Ensuring data integrity, quality control, and protocol compliance.
5. Coordinate assignment of laboratory personnel; monitor completion of assigned tasks and provide training or resources to research technicians and/or graduate students as needed.
6. Assist in preparing completed research reports or analyses on each project phase.
7. Excellence in written and oral communication skills.
8. Direct or participate in the tabulation and computation of project results.
9. Write results of experiments and manuscript preparation for publication.
10. Participate in the development of grant protocols.
11. Maintain knowledge of scientific trends through readings, conferences, and seminars.
12. Present research at conferences and seminars.
13. Review literature to identify suitable procedures and methods.
14. Utilizing fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures to perform routine scientific research tasks.
15. Maintaining knowledge with respect to relevant state-of-the-art technology, equipment, and/or systems.
16. Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein.
The mission of the Indiana University Department of Ophthalmology at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute is to train tomorrow's ophthalmologists and advance treatment and prevention of eye diseases and vision disorders through basic, translational, and clinical research. Our vision is to accomplish this in an environment of inquiry and learning for the advancement of patient-centered care through a world-leading eye institute. To successfully accomplish our mission and vision, we must foster a diverse environment that is welcoming, accepting, and culturally competent and that supports all individuals in reaching their full potential.
For more information on our research, please visit https://medicine.iu.edu/ophthalmology
IUSM is committed to being a welcoming campus community and we seek candidates whose research, teaching, and community engagement efforts contribute to robust learning and working environments for all students, staff, and faculty. We invite individuals who will join us in our mission to improve health equity and well-being for all throughout the state of Indiana.
Basic Qualifications
Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent degree in a relevant field such as physiology, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, or aerospace medicine.
Strong background in human physiology, translational research, or space biology.
Experience with human analog studies or related experimental models is highly desirable.
Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
A passion for advancing knowledge and innovation in space health
Department Contact for Questions
Tasneem P Sharma, PhD
Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology
Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute
Primary Faculty
Stark Neuroscience Research Institute
Adjunct Faculty
Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology
Indiana University School of Medicine
1160 W. Michigan St, Room GK305U
Indianapolis, IN, 46202
317-278-4529
tpsharma@iu.edu
Additional Qualifications
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates with molecular biology, stem cell biology, ex-vivo perfusion culture and/or mouse breeding as well as rodent ocular surgery experience are preferred. Ability to exercise independent judgment. Ability to interpret and determine appropriateness of scientific readings. Knowledge of laboratory techniques, and protocols. Knowledge of laboratory practices and ability to train new hires; notebook maintenance, and specific assay protocols. Successful completion of the required courses through the safety department (Radiation, Blood Bourne Pathogens, Biological and Laboratory Safety, etc.).
Special Instructions
Applicants should submit the following:
1. A cover letter detailing research interests, relevant experience, and career goals.
2. A curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting academic achievements and research accomplishments.
3. Contact information for three professional references.
Priority Application Review Deadline Expected Start Date Posting Number IUSM-02378-2026