Postdoctoral Associate in Neurotoxicology
School of Health Sciences, Purdue University
A highly motivated and independent postdoctoral associate is sought to join a neurotoxicology laboratory that is headed by Jason Cannon, Ph.D. The lab aims to discover mechanisms of environmentally-induced neurodegeneration and is well funded, including an NIH/NIEHS R01 and internal funds. The successful candidate will lead one of the following new directions in the lab: 1) Developmental origins of adult neurodegeneration. This project will focus on how environmental exposures during dopaminergic neuron development may result in late-life susceptibility to Parkinson’s disease. This project requires a background in developmental neurobiology/neurotoxicology using rodents. 2) Utilization of invertebrate models to determine how environmentally-induced autophagy disruptions elicit neurotoxicity. This project will explore gene-environment interactions related to pesticide exposure and autophagy. Experience with Drosophila or C. elegans models is required for this project. Training in molecular biology and invertebrate behavioral assays are also highly desirable for this project. Qualified applicants for either focus should have a Ph.D. in neuroscience, toxicology, or related discipline and resultant 1st author publications in top-tier neuroscience or toxicology journals. The applicant is expected to have outstanding oral and written communication skills. The successful applicant will be encouraged to develop her/his own ideas and seek extramural funding (e.g. F32, K99/R00, foundation grants as deemed appropriate). This is an outstanding time to join Purdue as a postdoctoral scientist. Purdue University recently launched the Integrative Neuroscience Center (http://www.purdue.edu/discoverypark/pillars/integrative-neuroscience-center/) and the Toxicology Science and Engineering Institute Pillar of Excellence. Of note, there will be opportunities to receive training in both toxicology and engineering – trainees will apply cutting edge engineered tools to address critical biological problems. Interested applicants should send a curriculum vitae and letter of interest describing current and future research interests to: cannonjr@purdue.edu. Review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background check is required for employment in this position. Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability or status as a veteran.