Postdoctoral Position in Neuroscience

I, Jing He, am excited to announce that I will officially start my position as an Assistant Professor at the Emory Primate Center and Department of Neurology at Emory University on Oct 1st, 2024. My PhD focused on molecular mechanisms of Parkinson’s disease (PD). With the big aim of bringing systems neuroscience into genetic considerations, my postdoc worked on classifying neuron types, screening genetic elements-enhancers, and deciphering cellular identities of circuit connections in non-human primate (NHP) basal ganglia and associated regions.

In the future, I will integrate molecular and systems neuroscience to investigate molecular and molecular-based circuit mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, especially Parkinson’s disease, and develop genetic tools to manipulate these involved cell types and circuits to achieve targeted therapy. The detailed projects will be separated into two parts, but both contribute to the aforementioned goal. In NHPs, I aim to 1) utilize single cell multiomics to further define cell types, identify cell type connections within basal ganglia circuits, and uncover disease-related changes; 2) screen cell type- or circuit-specific genetic targeting elements; 3) apply the developed genetic tools to achieve cell type- or circuit-specific therapy for PD. On human IPSC, I plan to use organoids or 3D microphysiological systems to 1) model PD and circuit connections, 2) screen genetic elements, and 3) screen therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.

I am seeking postdoc or experienced PhD students who are interested in integrating systems neuroscience with molecular and genetic research for functional studies and disease treatment. Ideal candidates shall have a background in molecular or systems neuroscience or computational biology. Experience with single cell techniques, neurodegenerative disease, or IPSC/stem cell research is highly desirable. Prior experience with non-human primates is not necessary.

The major support you will receive includes my active involvement and guidance on well-conceived projects, with the expectation of producing two decent journal publications within three years. Your success is our success, and I am deeply committed to providing the necessary resources and mentorship to help you thrive in your research endeavors. If you are interested, please contact me at (jing.he@emory.edu) with your CV and cover letter.