The Hernan Lab group at Nemours and the University of Delaware seeks a motivated postdoctoral scientist to conduct experiments to understand the role of neuropeptide signaling on astrocyte-neuronal dynamics in pediatric epilepsy. Recently, the lab has made major advances in identifying the mechanism of action for a neuropeptide-based treatment that can improve cognitive impairments associated with early life seizures in a mouse model. We'd like to continue this work to explore the role of dynamic astrocyte signaling in this effect via in vitro calcium imaging.

The postdoctoral fellow will be in a very supportive environment for career development, projects that could lead to independent funding for the postdoc are encouraged. The postdoctoral fellow will be expected to collaborate with the Scott Lab, mentor more junior lab members, and contribute intellectually to all aspects of the project. Candidates must have a recent or anticipated Ph.D., or M.D./Ph.D. degree and excellent interpersonal skills conducive to working in a team.

Expected skills:

Microscopy, including live-cell calcium imaging

Primary cell culture of mouse neurons and astrocytes

Familiarity with image processing in R or Matlab

Mouse handling

Immunohistochemistry

The applicant should include a CV, a brief 1-page statement summarizing current interests and experience, and three professional references.