RESEARCH SCHOLAR

School of Medicine

Established in 1930, Duke University School of Medicine is the youngest of the nation's top medical schools. Ranked sixth among medical schools in the nation, the School takes pride in being an inclusive community of outstanding learners, investigators, clinicians, and staff where interdisciplinary collaboration is embraced and great ideas accelerate translation of fundamental scientific discoveries to improve human health locally and around the globe. Composed of more than 2,600 faculty physicians and researchers, nearly 2,000 students, and more than 6,200 staff, the Duke University School of Medicine along with the Duke University School of Nursing, and Duke University Health System comprise Duke Health, a world-class academic medical center. The Health System encompasses Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital, Duke Raleigh Hospital, Duke Health Integrated Practice, Duke Primary Care, Duke Home Care and Hospice, Duke Health and Wellness, and multiple affiliations.

Research Activities: 

Research Topic: Gene Therapy for Respiratory Dysfunction in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy 

Job Description: 

Our lab is focused on gene therapy and the control of breathing in neuromuscular disorders. Specifically, we study mouse models of Amylotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Pompe disease and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. In addition, we evaluate the efficacy of adeno-associated viral-mediated gene therapy to correct the respiratory insufficiency that results from these neuromuscular disorders. Specific functions we test are whole body plethysmography and neurophysiology, which measure the muscular and neurological inputs that enable breathing.

We also work with neuronal cell cultures. Post-mortem molecular analysis is also employed, including biochemical (qPCR and western blot) and histological techniques. As a clinician scientist, Dr. ElMallah’s goal is to bring therapy form the bench to the bedside and enhance research at the bench through observations at the bedside. A post-doctoral candidate will spearhead a project that examines the respiratory pathology and neuropathology in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and the impact of novel therapies on this pathology. 

Requirements: 

· Perform a variety of molecular, cellular, biochemical and immunological analyses. 

· Optimize and troubleshoot experimental protocols and equipment. 

· Design, execute and document experiments with sufficient detail to understand and repeat by other lab members. 

· Update lab members on new developments in commercial reagents and techniques. 

· Compile and document results, maintain lab notes, and assist in writing reports and research manuscripts. 

· Prepare culture media, reagents and solutions. Assist in the development of new research procedures and techniques.

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Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essentialjob functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.