UNIV - Post Doctoral Scholar - Department of Neurosciences

Medical University of South Carolina • Charleston, SC

23h • Onsite

About The Position

The Li Lab at MUSC is seeking highly motivated and creative postdoctoral fellows to join a growing and dynamic research team. Our lab studies how neuron-glia interactions shape brain development, plasticity, and disease, with a focus on oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) and their synaptic communication with neurons. (https://jiaxinglilab.org/) We combine in vivo imaging, molecular engineering, and systems-level approaches in zebrafish to uncover how neural activity regulates myelination and circuit function. Our work aims to establish neuron-OPC synapses as a fundamental mechanism of brain plasticity. As a new and well-supported lab, this is a unique opportunity to help build a research program from the ground up while driving high-impact discoveries. We are deeply committed to mentorship and scientific development. In our lab, you will be treated first as a person, then as a scientist. We provide hands-on, individualized, and compassionate mentorship, and support trainees in developing independent research directions and pursuing funding opportunities such as K99/R00 and fellowships. You will gain experience in cutting-edge imaging, molecular tool development, and quantitative analysis. We are committed to fostering a collaborative environment where all members are treated with dignity regardless of background or identity. This position offers the opportunity to shape a new and ambitious research program, access state-of-the-art imaging and core facilities at MUSC, and work in a collaborative and supportive environment with strong mentorship and career development. We are looking for scientists who are curious, rigorous, and excited to explore the beauty of neural circuits in vivo. If you are driven to ask fundamental questions and build something new, we would love to hear from you. To apply, please upload a CV and a cover letter with your application describing your research experience and interests. Candidates are also encouraged to reach out to Dr. Jiaxing Li through the lab website to discuss potential projects and overlapping research interests.

Requirements

• Applicants should have a Ph.D. in neuroscience, biology, or a related field, with a strong background in cellular or molecular neuroscience, imaging or electrophysiology, molecular biology or genetics, or computational analysis
• Ability to think creatively and work independently
• Strong communication skills
• Demonstrated track record in the form of a strong publication record on topics related to the lab’s research interests

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience in zebrafish is not required

Responsibilities

• Lead the conception, design, and execution of innovative research projects aligned with the lab’s focus on neuron-glia interactions. Develop experimental strategies, perform in vivo imaging and molecular manipulations in zebrafish, and independently drive projects from hypothesis generation through data collection.
• Analyze complex imaging and molecular datasets using quantitative and computational approaches. Prepare figures, manuscripts, and presentations for publication in peer-reviewed journals and for presentation at national and international conferences.
• Develop and implement novel experimental tools and techniques, including molecular engineering strategies, imaging approaches, and analytical pipelines, to advance the study of neuron-OPC synapses and activity-dependent myelination.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to students and junior lab members, fostering a collaborative and inclusive research environment. Contribute to team-based projects and engage in interdisciplinary collaborations within MUSC and beyond.
• Assist with maintaining an organized and compliant laboratory environment, including contributing to protocol development (e.g., IACUC), ensuring adherence to institutional and safety regulations, and supporting general lab operations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees