Position Summary

Two postdoctoral positions are available to investigate the role of neuromodulator actions and sleep functions in Dr. Yao Chen’s laboratory in the Department of Neuroscience at Washington University in St. Louis. The first project will investigate how neuromodulators are interpreted via the spatial and temporal features of intracellular signals to play critical roles in cellular physiology and behavior.  The second project investigates the mechanisms by which sleep supports cellular and organismal functions.

We accomplish both goals by measuring and perturbing the dynamics of biological signals inside and outside the cell. We develop and employ a variety of techniques ex vivo and in vivo, including two-photon fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy, electrophysiology, biosensor design, opto/chemogenetics, molecular biology, pharmacology, and behavior analyses. For additional information see: sites.wustl.edu/yaochenlab/ . 

The PI is committed to mentoring and to nurturing a creative, thoughtful, and collaborative lab culture. Washington University neuroscience community is scientifically excellent and exceptionally collegial. The School of Medicine is consistently ranked among the top five medical schools in the United States, with extensive infrastructural and core facility support, and a dynamic research environment in many areas of basic and clinical science. Postdocs are also supported through a dedicated Office of Postdoctoral Affairs and an active Postdoc Society with many professional development opportunities. The St. Louis area combines the attractions of a major city with affordable lifestyle opportunities.

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/ .

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.D. degree by the time of the start date.
• Committed to neuroscience research, highly motivated and independent.
• Expertise in optical imaging and skilled in quantitative data analyses.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in neuromodulator signaling, circadian rhythm or sleep biology, and expertise in electrophysiology, animal behavior, or systems neuroscience are valued. Our work is interdisciplinary and will benefit from diverse perspectives, including molecular and cell biology, systems biology, biophysics, pharmacology, and engineering – even if your past work is not directly related to neuromodulators or sleep, you might be a great fit for the position.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range

Base pay commensurate with experience.

Applicant Special Instructions

Interested candidates should send the following to yaochen@wustl.edu : 1) a cover letter explaining motivation, research experience, and interests; 2) CV; 3) the names of three references.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.