Postdoctoral Scholar

Position Overview:

Postdoctoral Scholar position in neuroscience available immediately in the lab of Professor Chunlei Liu. The scholar will perform research in cell modulation using magnetogenetic techniques, which allow wireless, non-invasive, and on-demand control of genetically targeted neurons, glial cells, and other nerve cells. The primary focus will be on leveraging magnetogenetics to control neuronal circuitry activity to understand their role in brain functions and diseases. 

Key Responsibilities:

1. Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including the PI, graduate students, and other postdoctoral fellows.
2. Perform brain surgeries in rodents, including viral vector injections and cranial window implantation, essential for AAV expression and in vivo experiments.
3. Employ two-photon imaging in live mice to visualize and analyze neuronal activity.
4. Design and conduct behavioral experiments to assess cognitive functions and other behavioral outcomes in mouse models.
5. Analyze and interpret neurophysiological and behavioral data using relevant software (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
6. Prepare and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals. Assist in grant writing and submission for funding from institutions such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Essential Qualifications:

1. Experience in Neurosurgical Techniques: Proven ability to perform rodent brain surgeries for viral vector injections and cranial window implantation.
2. AAV Expression Expertise: Familiarity with the use of AAV vectors in gene delivery for neuronal targeting.
3. Two-Photon Imaging Proficiency: Hands-on experience with two-photon microscopy for in vivo imaging in live mice.
4. Behavioral Assays: Competence in conducting and analyzing behavioral tests in mouse models.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Electrophysiology: Experience in patch-clamp electrophysiology for investigating synaptic transmission and neuronal excitability.
2. Molecular Biology: Proficiency in designing and engineering constructs and viral vectors for specific cellular targeting.
3. Immunohistology: Skill in tissue processing and histological preparations for molecular and cellular analysis.

To apply, please submit the following documents:

1. Cover Letter
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. Contact information for three references (Letters of reference may be requested from finalists)

Contact Information:

Prof. Chunlei Liu: chunlei.liu@berkeley.edu

Dr. Miriam Hernández-Morales: miriam.hm@berkeley.edu

Equal Opportunity Statement:

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. For more information, visit UC Berkeley’s Nondiscrimination Policy.