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Microglia Research Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Microglia Research information

What is microglia research?

Microglia research is the scientific study of microglia, which are specialized immune cells found in the central nervous system. Researchers in this field investigate how microglia function in both healthy and diseased brains, including their roles in neuroinflammation, brain development, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The aim is to better understand how microglia contribute to brain health and to identify potential therapeutic targets for neurological conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in microglia research?

To thrive in Microglia Research, you need a strong background in neuroscience, cellular/molecular biology, and experimental design, typically with a PhD or relevant advanced degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, imaging techniques (e.g., confocal microscopy), and data analysis software (e.g., ImageJ, GraphPad Prism) is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and collaborative communication skills are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure rigorous experimental work, insightful data interpretation, and effective teamwork in advancing understanding of microglial function and pathology.

What are some typical challenges faced when conducting microglia research in a laboratory setting?

One common challenge in microglia research is maintaining the viability and purity of microglial cultures, as these cells are highly sensitive and can be easily activated by external stimuli. Researchers often need to troubleshoot protocols frequently and adjust to variability in cell responses. Additionally, distinguishing microglia from other glial cells in mixed cultures or tissue samples can require advanced techniques such as flow cytometry or immunostaining. Collaboration with neuroscientists, immunologists, and bioinformaticians is also essential to interpret complex data and advance projects efficiently.

What are popular job titles related to Microglia Research jobs in Wisconsin?

For Microglia Research jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Microglia Research jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Microglia Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Microglia Research job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Postdoctoral Researcher - Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy

Medical College of Wisconsin

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Medical College Of Wisconsin rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

263rd of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Summary
The lab seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral research fellow to lead studies related to one or more of our exciting research areas including 1) the role of astrocytes in motor neuron pathology in spinal muscular atrophy and 2) mechanisms underlying neural progenitor cell disruption following cytomegalovirus infection. To research these topics, the lab uses a variety of approaches including generating and differentiating patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells into a variety of neuronal and glial subtypes and forebrain organoids, live cell calcium imaging, microelectrode array, fluorescent microscopy, viral gene delivery for over-expression and knockdown studies both in vitro and in vivo, cell surface proteomics, and RNA sequencing. Translational projects are available and collaboration and communication with clinicians from the major adjacent hospitals regularly occurs. Our team is interactive and has multiple ongoing collaborations with other labs in various departments at MCW and at other institutes. We seek PhDs who are highly motivated, mature, and possess excellent interpersonal skills and writing skills. Opportunities are available for presentations at national and international scientific conferences and for applying for independent funding.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Independently design, execute, and analyze complex research procedures using induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons, astrocytes, microglia, and forebrain organoids
  • Perform calcium imaging on neurons and astrocytes
  • Bring new molecular and/or physiological methods to the laboratory
  • Develop creative new methodologies for lab procedures, including high content imaging, cell surface proteomics, and RNA seq approaches and analysis
  • Teach and guide technicians, rotating graduate students, rotating medical students, and junior graduate students to perform cellular and molecular analyses and help them efficiently organize and analyze their experiments.
  • Participate in lab meetings with the principal investigator and research staff and evaluate/interpret the validity of data, develop methodologies, and evaluate lab procedures.
  • May oversee the work of laboratory personnel including training and development as well as daily work direction/delegation/prioritizing.
  • Be an engaged lab member that works efficiently in a team setting and is willing to engage in lab and department outings.
  • Independently write first drafts of research proposals and first author manuscripts.
  • Present scientific findings at local, national, and international meetings
  • Apply to competitive independent funding opportunities
  • Effectively communicate with other lab members through email and personal interactions
  • Offer feedback for other lab member's and Dr. Ebert's grants and manuscripts.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge - Skills - Abilities
  • Strong motivation, team player attitude, and strong ability to design, organize, and coordinate scientific research projects.
  • Previous laboratory experience including sound scientific practice in research, methodology development and accurate laboratory techniques, and the ability to read, understand, follow and enforce safety procedures.
  • Experience with scientific approach and methodologies in neuroscience, induced pluripotent stem cell disease modeling, neurodegeneration, and molecular biology is preferred.
  • Experience with mouse models is desirable.

Qualifications
Minimum Required Education: PhD in a scientific field
Minimum Required Experience: 0 years
Preferred Education: Neuroscience, Cell and Developmental Biology
Preferred Experience: Progressive knowledge and skill development and stem cell biology
Physical Requirements
Work requires occasionally lifting moderate weight materials, standing, or walking continuously.
Work Environment
Occasional exposure to dust, noise, temperature changes, or contact with water or other liquids. Work is performed in an environmentally controlled environment.
Sensory Acuity
Ability to detect and translate speech or other communication required. May occasionally require the ability to distinguish colors and perceive relative distances between objects.
Why MCW?
  • Outstanding Healthcare Coverage, including but not limited to Health, Vision, and Dental. Along with Flexible Spending options
  • 403B Retirement Package
  • Competitive Vacation and Paid Holidays offered
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
  • Pet Insurance
  • On campus Fitness Facility, offering onsite classes
  • Additional discounted rates on items such as: Select cell phone plans, local fitness facilities, Milwaukee recreation and entertainment etc.

For a brief overview of our benefits see: Benefits Overview
For a full list of positions see: MCW Careers
At MCW all of our endeavors, from our internal operations to our interactions with our partners, are driven by our shared organizational values: Caring - Collaborative - Curiosity - Inclusive - Integrity - Respect. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity in backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives through merit-based processes and in alignment with all applicable laws. We believe that embracing human differences is critical to realize our vision of a healthier world, and we recognize that a healthy and thriving community starts from within. Our values define who we are, what we stand for and how we conduct ourselves at MCW. If you believe in embracing individuality and working together according to these principles to improve health for all, then MCW is the place for you. For more information, please visit our institutional website.
MCW as an Equal Opportunity Employer and Commitment to Non-Discrimination:
The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive community of outstanding faculty, staff, and students, as well as ensuring equal educational opportunity, employment, and access to services, programs, and activities, without regard to an individual's race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristic, or military status. Employees, students, applicants or other members of the MCW community (including but not limited to vendors, visitors, and guests) may not be subjected to harassment that is prohibited by law or treated adversely or retaliated against based upon a protected characteristic.

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About Medical College of Wisconsin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is an industry-leading educational institution located in Milwaukee, WI, US. Being part of the medical and health services sector, MCW's primary mission is to educate and train the next generation of healthcare professionals. MCW offers a wide array of degrees and programs within medical and health sciences, covering everything from medical, graduate, pharmacy and health sciences studies, to continuing professional developments and community engagement initiatives. Founded in 1893, MCW boasts a rich, well-entrenched history in shaping the medical education landscape locally and globally. The institution's core values of knowledge-changing life underline its dedication to incorporating innovative approaches in education and research, commitment to diversity and inclusion, service to the community, integrity, stewardship, and collaboration.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US

Year founded

1893

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