Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoctural position - Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania

A post-doctoral position to study i) mechanisms of epileptogenesis and seizure-evoked changes in synaptic plasticity and cognition; and ii) mechanisms of activity-dependent neurodegeneration and subsequent Alzheimer’s disease pathology is open in the laboratory of Dr. Frances Jensen at the University of Pennsylvania, Department of Neurology. The Jensen lab uses a broad range of techniques including protein biochemistry, molecular genetics, electrophysiology (ranging from whole cell patch clamp and field recordings in brain slices to video-EEG recordings in awake, behaving animals), in vitro calcium imaging, brain clearing followed by intact-hemisphere light sheet fluorescence microscopy, and animal magnetic resonance imaging to understand how seizures alter neuronal circuitry and ultimately impact learning and memory, neurodevelopment and neurodegneration. A particular focus is to identify neurodegenerative mechanisms triggered by seizure activity and test the efficacy of targeted therapies to improve cognition and seizure outcomes for patients with AD and epilepsy. Candidates with an interest in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students are also encouraged to apply.

The Neurology department, along with the greater Neuroscience community at the University of Pennsylvania, provides an outstanding, collegial environment for scientific development. In addition, close ties with clinical programs in Neurology and Neurosurgery offers the potential for collaborative translational studies. 

This position is available to start as of January 1, 2023 or shortly thereafter. Candidates must have a PhD, MD, or equivalent degree and be either U.S. Citizens or Permanent U.S. residents (Green Card holders).  While prior experience with electrophysiology and rodent disease models is helpful, talented and motivated individuals from all fields of biomedical science are encouraged to apply.  Please visit the laboratory website at http://www.med.upenn.edu/jensenlab/ for more information.