Postdoctoral Fellow

The laboratory of Dr. Kristen Harris invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow. We are seeking a candidate who has a demonstrated expertise in electrophysiology and a strong interest in cellular mechanisms of learning and memory. The position is located on the main campus of the University of Texas at Austin, where the laboratory is part of the Department of Neuroscience and Center for Learning and Memory. The successful candidate will design and lead projects to elucidate functional and ultrastructural characteristics of developing synapses that are necessary for long-term synaptic plasticity, as a cellular model of learning and memory. We are especially interested in applicants who are eager to expand their horizon and learn serial section electron microscopy from our in-house experts and collaborators. This position will also serve as a point person to provide technical support and training in the laboratory regarding synaptic physiology and ultrastructure.

Responsibilities

• Design and perform original laboratory research involving acute brain slice physiology and serial section electron microscopy to understand the structural basis of synaptic plasticity during development. Provide new knowledge about how changes in synapse structure support long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), and the maturation of learning and memory. (60%)
• Assist in training undergraduate and graduate students on these projects. (20%)
• Write and carry through to publication scientific papers regarding new findings from these studies. (10%)
• Help to write grants and acquire extramural funding. (10%)

Required Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in Neuroscience, with a background in electrophysiology, received with in the last three years.
• Two years of research experience, including experience in brain slice physiology. Authorship or co-authorship of at least 3 substantial scientific publications.
• Proven ability to work as a member or leader of an integrated research team and to present research to professional peers.
• Professional demeanor and good interpersonal skills to work with the lab members from diverse backgrounds.

Compensation will be commensurate with relevant experience according to the NIH scale. The position will remain open until filled. Please visit https://synapseweb.clm.utexas.edu for lab details.

Visit us for consideration and questions

SfN Interview Booth 3

Tuesday, 15^th of November, from 1-2pm PST