POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE - Neuroscience

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POSITION TITLE: Postdoctoral Associate POSITION SUMMARY:

We are seeking a motivated postdoctoral associate in the Dr. Srinivasan lab to work in the area of neural the gut-brain axis and neuroendocrine biology of lipid metabolism. It is now well-established that communication between the brain and the gut, the so-called gut-brain axis, regulates important aspects of behavior and metabolism in many species. However, the salient mechanisms and molecular features of gut-brain communication remain mysterious. In our lab, we utilize C. elegans as a model system for our discovery studies of gut-brain communication, in which we utilize cutting-edge technologies to measure dynamic neural and metabolic activity in living animals. Such cell-based readouts are coupled with changes in behavior and metabolism, to uncover novel pathways all the way from molecules to whole-animal biology.

Our work has uncovered a novel G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) with deep conservation in mice and in humans. We have developed a mouse model for this novel GPCR, which we wish to exploit for the development of novel therapeutics in gut-related and systemic disorders of metabolism. We seek a postdoctoral candidate who has the skills, drive and collaborative spirit to spearhead an exciting project with the potential for direct translation from bench to clinic.

Our research program is uniquely juxtaposed at the intersection of neuroscience and physiology and offers an exciting new perspective on the biology and architecture underlying brain-gut signaling. Our approach integrates several disciplines including molecular genetics, chemical biology, neuroscience, behavior and physiology. The Scripps Research Institute is one of the world's leading biomedical research institutes, and offers outstanding compensation, benefits and scientific opportunities for collaborations with laboratories engaged in cutting-edge science and novel technologies.

Postdoctoral Associates are appointed positions for the purpose of developing scholarly competence, working under the supervision of a Scripps Research Faculty member. These appointments are normally not renewed beyond a total of five years. Postdoctoral Associates cannot apply for external funding either as a Principal Investigator or Co-Principal Investigator without prior approval from a Departmental Chair. Postdoctoral Associates do not have consulting privileges.

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REQUIREMENTS:

Ph.D. in genetics, neuroscience, biochemistry, physiology or related disciplines. The candidate should have a strong background in mouse physiology and metabolism, cell-culture and molecular skills, and a conceptual understanding of pharmacology. First-author publications (or manuscripts in press) are a must, along with the interest and capacity to obtain postdoctoral fellowships. The candidate must be driven, possess a sense of scientific curiosity, and enjoy working in a culturally and scientifically diverse, team-oriented and stimulating environment. Please apply with your CV, a brief statement of research interests and the names of 2-3 supervisors and mentors who can be contacted for references.

COMPENSATION: Postdoctoral Associates will be hired following the National Institute of Health and California's exempt salary guidelines, which provide for a starting range of $68,000- $73,230. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Eligibility for retirement plans with employer contribution.
• Full suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more.
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care).
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies.
• Free, on-site Counseling Center which provides confidential counseling services to benefits-eligible employees and their family members.
• Free, on-site parking.
• Pet Insurance

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.

EEO Statement:The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status. Underrepresented individuals are encouraged to apply.