Postdoctoral Fellow – University of California, San Francisco/Weill Institute for Neurosciences

Job description:

Dr. Piao’s lab (http://www.piaolab.org/) focuses on glial cell function in brain development and neurodegeneration. Her published work (Giera et al., eLife, 2018; Li et al., EMBO J, 2020 & 2021; Yu et al., Science Advances, 2022) demonstrates that microglia and oligodendrocytes regulate key processes of neurodevelopment, such as central nervous system myelination, synaptic pruning, and interneuron development. Unpublished work from the lab uncovers novel glial mechanisms underlying brain development, major depression, and Alzheimer’s disease. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to work on one of the following topics (1) defining microglial mechanism of interneuron versus oligodendrocyte generation in the human medial ganglionic eminence, (2) the impact of immune activation on human brain development, or (3) uncovering the molecular mechanisms of microglial function in Alzheimer’s disease pathogenesis and progression. The techniques employed in the Piao lab include, but not limited to, biochemistry, single cell/single nucleus and spatial transcriptomics, histology, human iPSC-derived brain organoids, and transgenic mouse models. The Piao Lab is located at the newly built Weill Neurosciences Building at Mission Bay. The state-of-the-art open lab space enables close interactions and collaborations with top neuroscientists in the building.

Applicants must hold a PhD (within 2 years after obtaining the degree). Individuals with a strong background in neuroscience and computational biology are especially encouraged to apply.

Interested candidates, please send a cover letter describing past research accomplishments and future research interests, current CV, and a list of 3 reference contacts to Dr. Xianhua Piao (xianhua.piao@ucsf.edu).