The Welshhans Lab is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to work on NIH-funded studies examining the local translation of mRNAs in axons during neural development. The lab's overall research goal is to understand how axon guidance is regulated by local translation and adhesion during typical development and how these processes are dysregulated in Down syndrome. The successful applicant will join a vibrant lab group using advanced molecular, cellular, and imaging techniques to study the interplay between adhesion and local translation during axon guidance. The ultimate goal of this work is to understand how the extracellular environment influences intra-axonal translation to mediate brain development. Furthermore, we seek to advance our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that are dysregulated in Down syndrome and contribute to the intellectual disability phenotype of this disorder.

The lab routinely uses primary rodent neuron cultures, human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neurons (both as 2D cultures and 3D organoids), molecular biology techniques, and advanced microscopy, including TIRF and live cell imaging, to answer research questions about typical neurodevelopment and Down syndrome.

The postdoctoral fellow will become part of a dynamic and engaged group of five labs in the Department with a focus on axon biology, as well as the university-wide Carolina Autism and Neurodevelopment (CAN) Research Center, which is a multi-disciplinary and collaborative center for research in autism and neurodevelopmental disorders across USC.

Qualifications

Successful candidates should have a Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Developmental Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.

Previous experience with fluorescence microscopy, neuronal cell culture, induced pluripotent stem cells, RNA-seq, and/or other molecular and cellular techniques is preferred, but not required. Strong candidates will demonstrate evidence of independence, have effective oral and written communication skills, and can collaborate with others.

How to apply

To apply, please click the link above and submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references.

If you have additional questions, please contact Dr. Kristy Welshhans at