Postdoctoral research in feeding behavior - molecular mechanisms and neuronal circuits

Postdoctoral research in feeding behavior

- molecular mechanisms and neuronal circuits -

The Department of Clinical Sciences and laboratory of Olof Lagerlöf at Umeå University in Sweden are seeking one or two postdoctoral fellows to study the neurobiology of feeding behavior. The fellowship is full-time for two years starting January 2022 or by agreement.

At Umeå University you will experience an attractive and creative academic and research environment that is characterised by excellence, innovation, openness and diversity. We rank among the top universities in the world and are committed to providing our employees with unique opportunities for professional and personal development. More than 2000 researchers and 34 700 students have chosen Umeå University already. You are welcome too!

Lagerlöf Lab

Lagerlöf Lab is seeking one or two postdoctoral fellows to study the neurobiology of feeding behavior. We approach feeding behavior on a molecular, neuronal circuit and behavioral level. Our goal is to analyze food intake from molecule to mind deciphering how the brain encodes mental states such as hunger and satiety. We also apply fundamental mechanisms of feeding behavior to how mistakes in neuron circuit function may lead to eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and obesity. We have discovered that satiation depends on the nutrient sensor O-GlcNAc in a previously uncharacterized group of hypothalamic neurons (e.g. Lagerlöf et al. Science).

Project description

As postdoctoral fellow you will lead a project asking how specific neuronal circuits regulate food intake. The project involves neuronal circuit mapping and behavioral analyses in rodents. It is also possible to focus on molecular mechanisms by which neurons in the brain communicate to influence what, when and how much we eat. For motivated candidates we are able to set up a project investigating neuronal circuitry underlying eating disorders, particularly anorexia nervosa.

Qualifications

We seek people excited about elucidating the neurobiology behind food intake. The fellowship is full-time for two years starting January 2022 or by agreement. Eligible are those that hold a Ph.D. in neuroscience, biochemistry or a related field. Ph.D. students within 6 months of degree certification are encouraged to apply; their degree need to be finalized before acceptance can be given. Profeciency in rodent stereotactic brain surgery or primary neuronal cell culture is highly meritorious. Expertise in animal behavior analyses, fluorescent in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry and molecular biology are other sought qualifications. To be successful, candidates should have a good publication record, enjoy solving problems independently and together with the group, be devoted to science and be able to communicate in English. Personal fit within the team is emphasized.

Further information

For further information about the project and fellowship contact Assistant Professor Olof Lagerlöf at olof.lagerlof@umu.se.

Website: lagerloflab.com

To apply

The application should be submitted as one single document in Word or PDF.

The application should include:

1. Curriculum Vitae

2.  Cover letter describing your research interests, why you want to join us, how you can contribute to the lab and project and your career plans after the fellowship ends

3.  Publication list

4.  Copies of relevant degree certificates

5.  Two reference letters

Your complete application, marked with reference number FS 2.1.6-2000-21, should be sent to medel@diarie.umu.se (state the reference number as subject and in the file name) before 17 November 2021.

https://www.umu.se/en/work-with-us/postdoctoral-scholarships/6-2000-21/

We look forward to your application!