Postdoctoral Fellow, Laboratory of Dr. Kuo-Fen Lee
Salk Institute for Biological Studies

Job Summary

The Lee Group are looking for several postdoctoral candidates to understand the logic of aging and brain disease across multiple species and models, e.g., Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), Parkinson Disease (PD) and Schizophrenia (SCZ). We apply an integrative and whole brain network (e.g., graph theory), multi-scale and multiple-modal approach that includes single neurons-barcoding for BRICseq, multiomic single nuclei (sn)-RNAseq and sn-ATACseq, spatial transcriptomics and proteinomics, circuit mapping, in vivo physiological recording, optogenetics, large-scale unbiased behavioral screen, stem cells and gene-editing in embryos. Here are examples of research areas.

The logic of prodromal AD: AD is a progressive neu­rodegenerative disorder as a result of a complex series of events that take place in the brain over a long period of time—the prodromal phase can last longer than 20 years in humans—before being clinically diagnosed as AD dementia. The goal of this project is to elucidate the logic of where and how AD is initiated and progresses from prodromal phase to AD dementia. We will use AI with these multi-scale and multi-modal big datasets as well as public datasets to decipher the logic of prodromal AD.

Neural circuits and molecular mechanisms of PD and SCZ: PD is characterized by a prodromal phase with selectively cell vulnerability. e.g., dopamine neurons, resulting in both motor and non-motor symptoms, e.g., SCZ-like and cognitive impairments. We will apply multi-scale and multi-modal approach to elucidate cell-specific circuits, including those mediated by neuromodulators (e.g., dopamine, acetylcholine and norepinephrine) in basal ganglia and basal forebrain, and molecular mechanisms controlling motor (e.g., resting tremor) and non-motor symptoms.

Modeling human development and brain disease and regenerative medicine in non-rodent species: To bridge the gap between mice and human in both basic and translation science, we have been developing blastomere-like stem cells and genetic tools in non-rodent species to uncover the functions of gene and neural circuits underlying embryonic development (e.g., totipotency), brain disease and regenerative medicine.

The ideal candidates will be biologists who have training in neurobiology and disease and whole brain network (e.g., graph theory), multi-scale and multiple-modal approach mentioned above. They should be intellectually curious, highly productive, driven to uncover new and impactful biology and to apply this knowledge to the larger problem of brain function and disease and regenerative medicine, and enjoy working in a committed and diverse team.
 
Education: 

Ph.D. in neurobiology and disease or related fields.

Application Instructions:

Applicants should submit a current resume, a list of their pre-prints and publications, names of three references, and an indication of how their expertise and academic accomplishments make them a good fit for the position.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces diverse perspectives and unique life experiences, fostering innovation, and a sense of belonging. Together, we strive to improve the wellbeing of humanity through groundbreaking research.

Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the face of any challenge. Salk's vibrant community comprises a diverse and talented group of individuals, each playing a crucial role in driving our mission forward. From visionary leaders to dedicated administrators and brilliant faculty members, the Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and innovation.

What We Can Offer

The full postdoctoral salary range for wet lab opportunities is $70,000-$77,500 (see below). This range covers the entire postdoctoral training period; recent Ph.D. graduates should expect an offer at or close to $70,000 (minimum of the salary range). Salk Institute provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the institute reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

Experience Level/TierSalk Postdoc Salary0$70,0001$71,5002$73,0003$74,5004$76,0005$77,500

Benefits

Salk Institute offers competitive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, patient advocacy services, and transit/parking program.

Salk Values

The Salk Community, both scientists and administrators, worked together to define values that we believe support Salk’s pursuit of excellence. To be truly the best scientific institution requires not only incredible discoveries, but a common understanding of how we should work together to enable those discoveries.

The acronym “I CARE” provides a simple way to remember each of the values and reminds each of us of the importance of what we do each day.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Salk Institute for Biological Studies is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal access to opportunities for students, employees, applicants for employment and other visitors. Salk has also adopted and maintains a policy to encourage professional and respectful workplace behavior and prevent discriminatory and harassing conduct in our workplace.

Accordingly, the Institute prohibits harassment and discrimination in employment on the basis of, and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to, actual or perceived race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, marital status, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, veteran and/or military status (disabled veteran, veteran of the Vietnam era, other covered veteran status), political affiliation, and any other status protected by state or federal law.

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