About The Role:

We are broadly interested in how interactions between glia and neurons alter neuronal function in normal and diseased conditions. To learn more about our current research please see here.

We are looking for a candidate to join our group to work on an independent research project related to glia-neuron interactions or focused on the mechanisms of activity dependent-synapse elimination in the mammalian central nervous system. There are many possible projects in this area such as studying the role of astrocytes in synapse elimination, glia-immune signaling, cell death signaling at the synapse, the connection between neuronal activity and synapse elimination, or more generally - how glia support and protect neuronal function. Given these research goals, the ideal candidate will draw from the molecular and cellular biology toolbox and use innovative imaging to investigate at the tissue level the determinants of synapse elimination or the mechanisms involved in interactions between glia and other cells. You may need to develop new assays and procedures for collecting the data supporting or refuting specific research questions. While conducting and developing your own research project, you will also work collaboratively with other lab members by assisting or training them in complex experimental procedures and contribute to the overall direction of the research program. Importantly, passion and dedication to high standards of groundbreaking science is paramount.

What We Provide:

• A competitive compensation package, inclusive of comprehensive health and welfare benefits

• Opportunities for collaborations with other labs across the Janelia Research Campus

• Generous training and travel opportunities to scientific workshops and conferences

• Amenities that enhance work-life balance such as on-site childcare, free on-site gyms, on-campus housing, social and dining spaces, and convenient shuttle bus service

What You’ll Do:

• Read, Experiment, and Write: you will keep abreast with scientific literature on the lab research topic, ranging from general trends to specific procedures; you will do the actual experiments (i.e. pipetting, cloning, tissue sectioning, imaging, analysis, etc.); and you will keep detailed and day-to-day notes of your results and consolidated ideas.

• As directed by the lab head, you may supervise or mentor junior lab members, oversee smaller lab projects, or collaborations with other Janelia groups.

• Regularly attend research seminars offered on-site at Janelia, present on occasion your research progress and ideas to a wider audience, and eventually, assemble your results and interpretations in a proposed manuscript for publication.

• Actively participate and contribute to the upkeep of lab environment: order supplies, keep the areas of work tidy, follow BSL-2 lab standards.

What You Bring:

• As requirements for this position are not unlike those for faculty positions, you must hold a PhD in biology or related field with a proven record of independent and self-directed research as well as additional scientific expertise normally acquired through several years of postdoctoral training.

• Strong scientific background (preferably in neurobiology or related field) supported by a relevant publication record.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Initiative, self-motivation, and excellent work ethic

• Exquisite attention to details

• Willingness to work with animals (perfusions, tissue collections, etc.)

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.