Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Genetics

Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Genetics

The Bülow lab is interested in understanding how a nervous system forms and how it functions. To this end, we are using the small nematode C. elegans as a model system, which has proven to be a powerful system for the discovery of basic, conserved biological mechanisms, such as apoptosis, the genetic control of aging, axon guidance genes, MAP kinase and Notch signaling. We are now seeking postdocs for two main projects:

1. In project I we are studying dendrite morphogenesis using the highly branched dendritic tree of the PVD somatosensory as a model system. Using primarily forward genetic approaches, we have uncovered a molecular pathway (the “Menorin” pathway), which coordinates the molecular interactions from several tissues to establish the highly elaborate menorah-like dendrites of PVD neurons (e.g. Salzberg et al. 2013 Cell, Diaz Balzac et al. 2016 Current Biology, Ramirez-Suarez et al. 2019 Dev Cell, Rahman et al. 2022 EMBO Reports, Ramirez-Suarez et al. 2023 Development). We are now focusing on a new class of mutants that characteristically function to restrict branching, a generally understudied aspect of dendrite development. Therefore, we are seeking a highly motivated postdoc, interested in using a combination of classic forward genetic approaches combined with cutting edge imaging and molecular approaches to investigate this problem.

2. In project II we are studying the role of insulin signaling in the control of asymmetric brain connectivity during learning and memory. We have recently discovered that a neural salt sensing circuit is asymmetrically hardwired (Cook et al. 2019 Nature). Intriguingly, this circuit is plastic, and actively rewired during an associative learning paradigm through the action of local insulin signaling (Tang et al. 2023 Current Biology). We are focused on understanding the mechanisms that control insulin expression and that shape behavior through remodeling of the connectome. Therefore, we are seeking a highly motivated postdoc interested in using a combination of high-resolution behavioral studies in combination with advanced imaging and molecular approaches to investigate the dynamics and functions of a model neural circuit during associative learning.

We are a diverse and dynamic team of students and postdocs who share a passion for understanding basic biological problems. Interested candidates should send a cover letter, CV, and the names of three references to Hannes Bülow ([email protected]).

Salary range is $65-$75k/annum and commensurate with experience. Eligible for postdoctoral housing and other benefits. The Albert Einstein College of Medicine 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, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Einstein seeks candidates whose skills, and personal and professional experience, have prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence, and the communities we serve