Employer

Drexel University College of Medicine

Location

Philadelphia, PA, USA

Salary

Commensurate with experience

Opening and Closing date

Open until filled

Job Details

GaoLab website: http://drexel.edu/medicine/about/departments/Neurobiology-Anatomy/Research/Gao-Lab/

RESEARCH SUMMARY

The prefrontal cortex is one of the most complex brain regions in the central nervous system. We are interested in understanding the neuronal mechanisms underlying the synaptic signaling and monoaminergic regulation in the prefrontal cortical circuitry and the critical issues involving neuropathology of mental disorders and other neurological diseases. Specifically, we use both in vivo and in vitro preparations to examine the synaptic signaling and its impact on cognition in normal animals and clinical models of psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, autism, and ADHD.

Our research involves a variety of morphological, physiological, pharmacological, and molecular approaches designed to elucidate the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the prefrontal function. Morphological studies include single-cell labeling, neuronal tract tracing, neuronal reconstruction and immunocytochemistry. Physiological, pharmacological and molecular approaches include multiple whole-cell patch-clamp recordings, optogenetics, AAV-DREADD viral injection, drug administrations, techniques for epigenetic analysis (histone modification, ChiP-seq and DNA methylation), western blotting, laser capture and real-time PCR in fresh brain tissues, acute brain slices, and cell culture preparations. These multidisciplinary approaches enable us to conduct productive research projects associated with the prefrontal cortex and catecholamine systems that are highly relevant to neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, autism, and ADHD.

The Gao lab is strongly committed to providing individual mentoring and training and ongoing support at all stages of career development.

Applications: Individuals with evidence of scientific accomplishment are encouraged to apply by sending their CV, a brief description of research interests, and contact information for three references to: wg38@drexel.edu

Requirements

• Ph.D. in neuroscience or related discipline
• Prior experience in electrophysiology, imaging, optogenetics, chemogenetics, small surgery and animal behavior is preferable
• Strong record of peer-reviewed publications
• Ability to independently design and execute experiments and interpret data
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary, highly collaborative environment
• Outstanding oral and written skills in English

EEO Statement

Drexel University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is proactively committed to diversity and inclusion in all of its policies, practices and services. We are especially interested in qualified candidates who can contribute to the varied diversity and excellence of the academic community, and all of its complements.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, and INCLUSION statement

DIVERSITY IS OUR STRENGTH. INCLUSION IS OUR VALUE. BELONGING FOSTERS OUR INNOVATION.

At Drexel University, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment based on integrity, trust, and respect. We view the diversity of our students, faculty, professional staff, and partners as our strength. As such, we strive to create a culture where everyone can leverage their uniqueness to foster innovation because they feel a sense of belonging.

We define diversity as the differences that make us uniquely who we are. This includes both individual (personality, values, attitudes, etc.) and other dimensions of difference, including ideological, intellectual, economic, gender, gender identity, ability, sexual orientation, religious, age, racial, cultural, ethnic, visible, and invisible disabilities, veteran status, nationality, and all the diversity of our students, faculty, professional staff, alumni, and other partners.

To maximize the strength that our diversity brings, we center equity, inclusion and belonging, and incorporate an anti-racism approach to our strategic plan, organizational systems, policies, and structures.