Post Doc (6)

University of Massachusetts Medical School • Worcester, MA

6d

About The Position

The Alkema Laboratory in the Department of Neurobiology at UMass Chan Medical School seeks a motivated, creative postdoctoral fellow to study how nervous systems generate complex behaviors and adapt to changes in internal and external environments. The laboratory uses Caenorhabditis elegans to investigate how neuromodulators and co-transmitters generate behavioral states and transitions, and how gut microbiota and microbial metabolites influence neural function, physiology, and behavior. Research examines how internal state, environmental conditions, and microbial signals are integrated by the nervous system.

The lab combines genetics, molecular biology, quantitative behavioral analysis, neural imaging, optogenetics, bacterial genetics, and metabolomics. The successful candidate will have considerable freedom to develop an independent research direction within either research area or at their intersection. The position is part of a collaborative research environment in the Department of Neurobiology, with access to advanced imaging, genomic, metabolomic, and computational resources. The fellow will participate in manuscript and grant writing, with training and mentorship in grant writing and encouragement to develop and submit fellowship and research proposals.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in neurobiology, microbiology, molecular biology, genetics, metabolism, bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Previous peer-reviewed publications.
• Strong experimental, analytical, and scientific-writing skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Interest in neuromodulation, behavior, or microbiome-host communication.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience with C. elegans is helpful but not required.
• Applicants with backgrounds in neuroscience, microbiology, microbial genetics, imaging, metabolomics, or quantitative biology are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Develop an independent research direction within the laboratory’s research areas or at their intersection.
• Participate in manuscript and grant writing.
• Develop and submit fellowship and research proposals.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree