Postdoctoral studies in neuropeptide release and function (scholarship)

A position as postdoctoral researcher is available in the Harkany lab at the Department of Neuroscience at Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden for a motivated young individual wishing to join a multidisciplinary project with critical next steps to understand and to modulate novel mechanisms of neuroendocrine signaling in the hypothalamus and peripheral hormone release sites. The research project is supported by grants from the Swedish Research Council and the Swedish Brain Foundation (Hjärnfonden).

During the recent years, our laboratory has discovered novel protein interactions participating in the exocytosis release machinery for hypothalamic and pancreatic hormones, and potentially neuropeptides. Our work has particularly focused on a novel class of calcium-sensor proteins, their localization, biochemical characterization, typifying their protein-protein interactions, and the structural investigation of the protein complexes. We are aiming at the development of specific inhibitors that provide new pharmacological means to modulate hormone release and consequently stress, post-traumatic stress disorder, and diabetes. A postdoctoral fellow is recruited to take the project forward to analyze the pharmacological modulation of protein-protein interactions at physiological and systems levels. Furthermore, investigation of neuropeptide signaling, using selective lesions, and in utero manipulation (e.g., maternal diet) is projected. Relevant literature includes: Szodorai et al. PNAS PMID:38593081 Benevento M. et al. Nature PMID:38538787, Malenczyk K. et al. EMBO J. PMID:28637794; Romanov RA. et al. EMBO J. PMID:25430741, Fuzik J et al. PNAS PMID: 31796600 and Malenczyk K. et al. Mol Metab. PMID: 29910119).

Post-doctoral position with a focus on cellular and rodent models of stress biology:

The candidate will be expected to independently conduct genetic loss- and gain-of-function analyses, and be involved in the molecular dissection of how certain proteins and small molecules impact hormone and/or neuropeptide release in in vitro systems (primary cells, cell lines) and at the systems level in the intact brain. Thus, their role in exploring the pharmaceutical modulation of hormone and/or neuropeptide availability and function will be seen as essential for the success of the research program.

Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in the fields of cell biology, molecular neuroscience, neuropharmacology or neuroendocrinology. Documented experience in working with cell cultures (primary cells, cell lines, iPS models), including their genetic manipulation and experience with the genetic analysis of protein function in mouse models will be required. Practical knowledge in measuring vesicle neuropeptide/hormone transport and release will be seen as necessary. Excellent communication skills in English (both written and oral), and an ability to interact socially and scientifically in a multinational environment will be required. Prior involvement in international consortia or collaborations will be deemed an advantage. A strong publication record will be considered as an important merit during the selection process.

Scholarships for postdoctoral qualification can be established for foreign researchers who place their qualifications in Sweden. The purpose of scholarships for postdoctoral qualification is to promote internationalization and contribute to research qualification after a doctorate or equivalent.
A scholarship for carrying out postdoctoral research can be granted for a maximum of two years within a four year period following the receipt of a doctoral degree or equivalent.
To be eligible for a postdoctoral scholarship, the person must have obtained a doctorate or a foreign degree deemed to be equivalent to a doctorate. Applicants who have not completed a doctorate at the end of the application period may also apply, provided that all requirements for a completed degree are met before the (intended) start date of the post doctoral education.

The head of the department determines whether their previous training and scholarly qualifications correspond to a Swedish doctorate or higher.

Location: Solna

The amount is tax free and it is set for twelve months at a time, paid out on a six months basis. In exceptional cases, shorter periods may be acceptable.

An application must contain the following documents in English or Swedish:

• A complete curriculum vitae, including date of the thesis defence, title of the thesis, previous academic positions, academic title, current position, academic distinctions, and committee work
• A complete list of publications
• A summary of current work (no more than one page)

• At least two letters of reference need to be enclosed.

The application is to be submitted on the Varbi recruitment system.