Postdoc Positions in Developmental Genetics of Nervous Systems

Germany. Max Planck Institute.

Four years full-time Postdoctoral positions in the division of Neurosciences, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research. The work will be in a project entitled “Developmental Genetics of Nervous Systems“. Expected candidates should hold PhD in Biological Science, strong background in neurobiology and neuroanatomy and experience in confocal microscopy and molecular biology.

The projects will involve analyzing the development of neuronal subtypes and formation of neural circuits within the hypothalamus using the zebrafish as a model organism. The hypothalamus, a key integrative center in the brain, controls immense number of crucial bodily functions such as sleep, reproduction, food intake, and stress response yet relatively little is known about its development.

We combine forward genetics screen and transgenesis in zebrafish, comparative analysis in mouse, confocal live imaging and biochemical methods to analyze 1) basic paradigms of hypothalamic neuronal subtype specification, and 2) connectivity and functional properties of select hypothalamic circuits. We are particularly interested in the circuitry underlying the stress response whose hyperactivation is implicated in depression.

To apply please send an email to Dr. Soojin Ryu at soojin.ryu@mpimf-heidelberg.mpg.de with the subject line “application” followed by your name and include a statement of interests, CV, and contact information for three references. Please quote the position reference number (catchwords/bid invitation number): 32008 .

Women are especially encouraged to apply; handicapped applicants with equal qualifications will be given preferential treatment.

The Deadline for applications: August 1st, 2008.

For further details you may contact:
Max Planck Institute for Medical Research
Dr. Soojin Ryu
Jahnstrasse 29
69120 Heidelberg
Tel: +49 6221 486-210
Fax: +49 6221 486-561
E-mail: soojin.ryu@mpimf-heidelberg.mpg.de