Two Research Scientist Positions in Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology

RESEARCH SCIENTIST POSITIONS

Two Research Scientist positions in neurobiology are available in the Departments of Cell Biology and Neurobiology at the Duke University School of Medicine.

Our research group utilizes genetically engineered mice to investigate the intrinsic cellular responses to brain injury and tissue remodeing. We are looking to hire two neuroscientists for the following research projects:

1)  Mechanisms controlling glial cell plasticity. We are working on unraveling a novel neuroimmune pathway coupled to transcriptional stability controlling glial cell transformation, as well as their roles in neural stem cell niche regulation. We are conducting functional studies using brain slice preparations and biochemical/molecular studies in dissociated primary cells to investigate the innate plasticity/stability of multiciliated glial cells and astrocytes in the postnatal brain. We are also performing functional imaging experiments to determine glial responses to neuroimmune pathway modulation in health and after CNS injuries. For this position, publication record in molecular/cellular neuroscience and/or neuroimmunology, and technical experience in molecular and protein biochemistry are strongly preferred.

2)  Circuit level control of neurogenesis. Currently we are working on a newly identified neural circuit important for modulating newborn neuron production in the postnatal brain. We are conducting functional studies to investigate the excitatory/inhibitory connectivity and control of neurons within this neural circuit (using whole-cell patch clamp and optogenetic approaches). We are also performing in vivo circuit mapping and imaging to determine the behavioral correlates driving circuit activity. For this position, publication record in electrophysiology/neurophysiology, and technical experiences in whole cell recording and in vivo viral injection to target neurons are strongly preferred.

These positions are appointed at the Research Scientist level, and are full-time. The successful applicant is expected to have a Ph.D. degree in biomedical sciences and have prior postdoctoral experience. Lab duties are focused on performing experiments, as well as mentoring junior lab members, keeping up with relevant published literature, and assisting the PI in assembling grant applications. Candidates should show clear scientific enthusiasm, strong work ethic, agility in learning new experimental techniques, and penchant for collaborations. Review of applicants will start immediately and continue until the position is filled. Salary level is based upon the applicant's research qualifications.

Please send a pdf file containing 1) CV, 2) Statement of research experiences and goals (one page), to: chay.kuo@duke.edu