Postdocs - Developmental Neurobiology & Neural Circuits | UCSC, California

Employer

University of California, Santa Cruz

Location

Santa Cruz, California

Salary

Based on NIH scale

Closing date

Oct 18, 2025

Postdoctoral Fellow - Neural Circuit Development of Higher Brain Function through Developmental Neurobiology and Electrophysiology

The Kim Lab in the Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology at the University of California, Santa Cruz is recruiting one or more NIH-funded postdoctoral fellows to join our collaborative and multidisciplinary team. These positions are supported by the NIH R01 mechanisms.

Our lab investigates how molecular genetic programs interact with environmental factors to guide the assembly of precise neural circuits during mammalian brain development. We are particularly interested in how these developmental processes establish long-range connectivity and influence sensory processing and behavior.

To explore these questions, we develop and apply an integrated set of tools and approaches, including:

• Next-generation trans-synaptic viral circuit tracing
• Engineering novel viral vectors for cell- and circuit-specific labeling
• Single-cell genome-wide transcriptomics
• In vivo imaging and circuit manipulation
• Mouse genetics and developmental models

We offer a rigorous and supportive training environment with strong collaborative ties across UCSC's neuroscience, genomics, and developmental biology communities. UCSC also provides excellent postdoctoral support and access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure.

Qualifications and Areas of Interest: We welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and interests. Particularly encouraged are applicants with experience in or enthusiasm for:

• Developmental biology and molecular genetics
• Electrophysiology (in vitro or in vivo) for studying neural circuits
• Single-cell omics and transcriptomics
• Viral vector design and engineering
• Neural circuit mapping and manipulation
• Mouse models of brain development

Candidates must hold a Ph.D. (or equivalent) by the start date and have a strong record of research productivity. Prior experience in neuroscience or developmental biology is preferred but not required.

To apply, please send:

1. Curriculum vitae
2. Brief cover letter describing your research background, interests, and goals
3. Contact information for three references

Informal inquiries are welcome.

Contact: Euiseok Kim, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology University of California, Santa Cruz Email: ekim62@ucsc.edu Lab website: http://www.ejkimlab.com

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.