Job Description

The Saxena Laboratory at the University of Missouri, School of Medicine, USA is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join a dynamic research program focused on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and related neurodegenerative disorders. Our laboratory investigates how neuron-glia interactions, cellular stress pathways, and disease-associated genetic factors contribute to neurodegeneration, with the goal of identifying novel therapeutic targets. We employ cutting-edge human stem cell technologies, advanced imaging, molecular biology, and in vivo disease models to address fundamental questions in neurodegenerative disease biology.

Our lab is part of a growing vibrant neuroscience research community through the NextGen Precision Health Initiative and postdoctoral fellows will benefit from a state-of-the-art infrastructure and highly dynamic lab environment, where research groups are interested in resolving enigmatic questions spanning from substrates of physiological aging to the role and remodeling of neuronal circuits in pathological neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, to disorders associated with sensory and peripheral nervous system as well as interdisciplinary collaborations with computational neuroscientists within and outside the campus. Further, the overarching goal of NextGen Precision Health is to engage in world-class clinical care and cutting-edge translational research that connect patients to the latest treatment innovations and prevention strategies.

https://www.n-mlabs.com/

https://precisionhealth.missouri.edu/

Research Focus
The successful candidate will lead and contribute to projects utilizing:
Patient-derived disease models of ALS and other neurodegenerative disorders
Human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived central nervous system (CNS) cell types, including motor neurons, astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes
Multi-cellular approaches to study neuroimmune and neuron-glia interactions
Molecular, cellular, and genomic analyses of disease mechanisms and therapeutic interventions

Applicants should have:
A Ph.D. /or M.D./Ph.D. either in Neuroscience, Cell Biology, Stem Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related discipline
Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following:
Human iPSC culture and differentiation
ALS, frontotemporal dementia (FTD), or other neurodegenerative disease models
Single-cell omics, transcriptomics, or advanced imaging approaches
A strong publication record and excellent written and verbal communication skills
The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment

Benefit Eligibility
This position is eligible for university benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Values Commitment
We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person’s success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research, and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn, and innovate.

Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment based on their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions, and terminations. For more information, visit https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeo or call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-2146.


Application Materials
Candidates should send applications or queries directly to Dr. Smita Saxena at [email protected]. Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a statement of research accomplishments and goals, and a list of three references. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled.