A postdoctoral position in mechanisms of synapse development is open in the Unit of Cellular Communication, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, in the main campus of the National Institutes of Health. We are a dynamic group interested in molecular mechanisms of cellular signaling during development. We use the Drosophila system and a variety of approaches (genetics, biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology, electrophysiology) to understand how chemical synapses form and function. Using the fly neuromuscular junction as a model for the development of glutamatergic synapses, we study two key questions in synaptogenesis: 1) how do glutamate receptors traffic to the synapse; 2) how do they form stable clusters at the mature postsynaptic densities.

State-of-art imaging and biochemistry/molecular biology equipment are available in our highly interactive research environment. The NIH provides abundant training opportunities and excellent support for postdoctoral fellows. In addition, the Bethesda main campus is located in the Washington DC metropolitan area, offering a culturally rich and diverse environment.

Candidates for this position should hold a Ph.D. and should have less than five years of postdoctoral training. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and accomplishments. To apply send cover letter, CV, and three references to:

Mihaela Serpe, Ph.D.
Head, Unit on Cellular Communication
serpemih@mail.nih.gov
http://ucc.nichd.nih.gov/