Sunday, November 20, 2011

Post Doc position(Mechanisms of Synapse Development) at NICHD, Bethesda

National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD and surrounding area
 A postdoctoral position is open in the Unit of Cellular Communication, Program in Cellular Regulation and Metabolism, NICHD. We are a dynamic group interested in molecular mechanisms of cellular signaling during development. We use the Drosophila model system and a variety of approaches (genetics, biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology, electrophysiology) to understand how chemical synapses form and function.
 Synapse development is a highly orchestrated process that requires bidirectional communication between two synaptic partners across the synaptic cleft. The biological processes that precede or follow synaptogenesis, such as mechanisms that drive axon guidance, synapse growth and homeostasis, are relatively well understood. However, the way that chemical synapses are physically assembled, particularly the organizing of postsynaptic densities (PSD) remain the subject of intense research. Using the Drosophila neuromuscular junction (NMJ) as a model for the development of glutamatergic synapses, we study two key questions in synaptogenesis: 1) how do glutamate receptors traffic to the synapse; 2) how do they form stable clusters at the mature PSDs.
State-of-art imaging and biochemistry/molecular biology equipment are available in our highly interactive research environment. NIH provides abundant training opportunities and excellent support for postdoctoral fellows. In addition, the Bethesda main campus is located in the Washington DC metropolitan area, offering a culturally rich and diverse environment.
Candidates for this position should hold a Ph.D. and should have less than five years of postdoctoral training. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and accomplishments. US citizenship or permanent residency is not required. To apply, send CV, statement of research, and three references to:
Mihaela Serpe, Ph.D.
Head, Unit on Cellular Communication

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