Postdoctoral Associate

Summary

A Postdoctoral Associate position is available in the Gao Lab at BCM Department of Neuroscience. The Gao Lab studies the cellular mechanisms of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric conditions using cutting-edge proteomics, protein/genome engineering, structural biology, and electrophysiological approaches. The postdoc will engage in frontier, discovery-based research in protein-protein interaction, focusing on dynamic neuronal subcellular compartments such as the synapse and axon initial segment. The postdoc will also have excellent collaboration opportunities at Baylor College of Medicine / Texas Medical Center.

Job Duties

• 
  Plans, directs, and conducts advanced cellular neuroscience research with a focus on the mechanisms of protein interaction related to neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric conditions.
  


• 
  Designs, analyzes, and interprets experiments using molecular biology, genome engineering, proteomics, microscopic imaging, and electrophysiology.
  


• 
  Establishes new research protocols and procedures.
  


• 
  Provides intellectual contribution to other ongoing projects in the lab, and assist PI in shaping the long-term research strategies and directions.
  


• 
  Demonstrates commitment to fostering a collaborative lab environment and promoting positive group dynamics.
  


• 
  Contributes to everyday tasks in the lab and training of students and other trainees.
  


• 
  Applies for grant opportunities when appropriate.
  


• 
  Attends departmental seminar series and other departmental events.
  

Minimum Qualifications

• 
  MD or Ph.D. in Basic Science, Health Science, or a related field.
  


• 
  No experience required.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• 
  The ideal candidate should be a self-starter, with excellent interpersonal skills and time management ability.
  


• 
  Records of first-author publications in the field of Cellular Neuroscience is required. Exceptions may be given for outstanding candidates with a clear justification to switch fields.
  


• 
  Ph.D. degree in Neuroscience, Cell and molecular biology, or related fields.
  


• 
  Standard molecular and cellular neurobiology techniques such as vector design and cloning, cell/neuron culture, immunocytochemistry, Western blot, laboratory animal procedures, and scientific writing.
  


• 
  Demonstrated ability and strong motivation to lead research projects with minimal supervision.
  


• 
  Additional desired (but not required) skills: Experience in any of the following areas is especially valued:  synaptic plasticity, programming, structural biology, calcium imaging, and electrophysiology.