Postdoctoral Associate- Nervous System

Summary

The Blue Bird Circle Developmental Neurogenetics Laboratory in the Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience and Molecular and Human Genetics programs at Baylor College of Medicine is seeking applicants for a postdoctoral research associate position. The interdisciplinary laboratory uses molecular anatomy and cellular electrophysiology approaches to understand how single genes control cortical excitability, network synchronization, and epilepsy in the developing brain. Current mouse models of epilepsy include mutations of ion channels, transmitter receptors, and glioblastoma. Spontaneous and transgenic mutations that express neurological phenotypes in the mouse provide a valuable opportunity to identify excitability genes and examine their role in synaptic plasticity in the developing brain.

Brain wave (EEG) phenotypes emerge from gene-linked alterations in neuronal signaling properties, and are of special interest. Study of these mice have led to the identification of novel members of the TARP gene family, hippocampal hyperexcitability and seizures in models of Alzheimer's disease, genes and mechanisms underlying spreading depression and sudden death, and a new understanding of cancer neuroscience. We are also exploring activity-induced changes of downstream gene expression and conditional gene silencing in epileptic brain to identify regulatory pathways that are critical mechanisms of disease and tumor progression. Some of these genes, such as those for glutamate and GABA transporters and microglial pathways suggest distinct mechanisms for seizure-induced excitotoxicity and inflammation.

Job Duties

• Plans, directs and conducts specialized and advanced research experiments.
• Evaluates and analyzes data.
• May establish new research protocols and procedures.
• Summarizes research findings and publish results in research journals.
• May be responsible for laboratory operations.
• May supervise research staff.
• Conduct molecular anatomical techniques of in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, quantitative analysis of seizure-activated mRNAs, in vivo and in vitro cell physiology, 2 photon imaging, and optogenetic tools.

Minimum Qualifications

• MD or Ph.D. in Basic Science, Health Science, or a related field.
• No experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Publications in Neuroscience field.
• Experience with cellular electrophysiology or imaging of brain cells highly recommended.
• Excellent written/oral communication.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic and collaborative basic/translational research environment.

Baylor College of Medicine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Equal Access Employer.