Postdoctoral Fellow, Neuroscience, Circuits in Neurodegeneration

The Saxena laboratory, recently relocated to the NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, Columbia,

We are looking for postdoctoral candidates for projects focused on understanding neural circuits within the context of CNS-linked neurodegeneration, involving techniques combining molecular and systems neuroscience approaches in an integrative and quantitative manner.

Laboratory Profile

The Saxena laboratory, recently relocated to the NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, USA from the University of Bern, Switzerland, and our research bridges fundamental mechanisms associated with the dynamics of neuronal networks and the pathological interplay of neuronal networks in triggering and propagating disease in pre-defined networks. Topics under investigation involve the circuit mechanisms of disease and the identification of molecular correlates, activity-dependent synaptic-proteome, and interactome-shaping plasticity, the role of neuroinflammation on circuit function, and the crosstalk between cellular organelles in maintaining neuronal homeostasis and functional networks.

Our experimental approaches include in vivo two-photon imaging, electrophysiology, connectomics, two-photon patterned optogenetics, and analytic approaches borrowing from causal network inferencing, machine learning, and control theory. Problems are tackled in the awake-behaving setting, across synaptic to network scales.

Smita Saxena - Google Scholar

Smita Saxena, PhD - MU School of Medicine (missouri.edu)

Our lab is part of a growing vibrant neuroscience research community through the NextGen Precision Health Initiative and postdoctoral fellows will benefit from a state-of-the-art infrastructure and highly dynamic lab environment, where research groups are interested in resolving enigmatic questions spanning from substrates of physiological aging to the role and remodeling of neuronal circuits in pathological neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, to disorders associated with sensory and peripheral nervous system as well as interdisciplinary collaborations with computational neuroscientists within and outside the campus. Further, the overarching goal of NextGen Precision Health is to engage in world-class clinical care and cutting-edge translational research that connect patients to the latest treatment innovations and prevention strategies.

Welcome | NextGen Precision Health (missouri.edu)

Qualified candidates must have a PhD or equivalent in neuroscience, systems neuroscience by start of the appointment.

Candidates will be evaluated on:

• Exceptional creativity, flexibility, good communication skills and strong scientific writing skills
• Expertise in 2-photon calcium imaging and in vivo optical methods
• Electrophysiology knowledge is a plus
• Interest in combining experimental, computational and theoretical approaches is also a plus
• Creative, collaborative, and ambitious with an excellent publication record during their doctoral and postdoctoral work in neuroscience, systems biology, computer science or related disciplines

Salary is commensurate with experience starting at NIH pay scale. Additional incentives are provided, including moving expenses.

Please submit current CV, Cover letter, a statement of research accomplishments & goals & list of three (3) references. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

100% on-site work.

The posting will remain open until filled.

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen cultural festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.

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