Postdoc Opening

Two postdoctoral positions are available to study (1) the mechanisms underlying the regulation of axonal transport of membrane organelles (synaptic cargos, mitochondria, late endosomes/lysosomes, autophagosomes); (2) Impact of axonal transport of these organelles on axonal homeostasis and degeneration.

Using a combination of state-of-the-art live cell imaging, neuronal cell biology, and electrophysiology in the genetic mouse models, we characterized three newly identified proteins Snapin, syntabulin, and syntaphilin in intracellular membrane trafficking. Recent publications from the lab include Nature Cell Biology, 2001; Nature Cell Biology, 2004; J Neuroscience, 2005, 2007, and 2009; J Cell Biology, 2005; Cell, 2008; Neuron 2009; and Neuron 2010). Given that defects in axonal transport have been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration, our studies will yield fundamental information that may have an impact on the understanding human neurodegenerative disease and neurological disorders.

The lab is equipped with two confocal microscopes (Zeiss LSM510 META and Olympus FV1000 with TIRF) two electrophysiological setups, and many other pieces of equipment for molecular and cell biological study. The lab also accesses to two-photon microscope and super-resolution microscope. The unique open-lab setup in new Porter Neuroscience Building creates a highly interactive research environment. NIH provides ample training opportunities for postdoctoral fellows including intensive classes for grant writing and academic job application. Postdoctoral fellows are highly supported to apply for competitive fellowship and K99 award. In addition, the Bethesda campus is located in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, offering a culturally rich and diverse environment.

Candidates for these positions should hold a Ph.D. with research experience in neurobiology or cell biology, particularly in one of these areas: in vivo imaging, organelle transport, membrane trafficking, synaptic plasticity, and neurodegenerative mouse models.

Application Instructions:

To apply, please send CV and names of 3 references to:

Dr. Zu-Hang Sheng
Senior Principal Investigator and Chief
Synaptic Functions Section, NINDS, NIH
The Porter Neuroscience Building, Room 2B-215
35 Convent Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-3706
email: shengz@ninds.nih.gov

Lab Webpage: http://neuroscience.nih.gov/Lab.asp?Org_ID=56
DHHS and NIH are Equal Opportunity Employers

• Zu-Hang Sheng, Ph.D.
• Senior Investigator
• Porter Neuroscience Research Center
• 35 Convent Drive 35, 2B-215
• Bethesda, MD 20892-3706

• Office: (301) 435-4596
• Fax: (301) 480-5763
• Lab : (301) 451-9669

• Email: shengz@ninds.nih.gov