The Yasuda Laboratory at the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) is currently inviting applications for postdoctoral research fellows. We are seeking highly qualified and motivated candidates interested in using novel optical approaches in brain slices and/or in vivo to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic plasticity and memory formation.
The Yasuda Laboratory focuses on elucidating the coordinated activity of signaling proteins that mediate the structural plasticity of dendritic spines, a form of plasticity that is critical for learning and memory. In particular, we develop novel optical sensors to measure the signaling activity of key proteins that contribute to plasticity using two-photon fluorescence lifetime imaging (2pFLIM). Our lab also develops tools to optically manipulate protein activity and label endogenous proteins, and we combine these new techniques with two-photon imaging/uncaging, electrophysiology, in vivo imaging, and biochemistry to produce high impact publications (e.g. Nature, Science, Cell, Nature Neurosci, Neuron, etc.). We encourage applications from candidates who are excited to push the boundaries of current optical approaches. Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative team setting are required.
The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g. neuroscience, biochemistry, cell biology, etc.) and previous experience in optics, biophysics, or synaptic plasticity. Prior research experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, and/or synaptic physiology are strongly preferred.
The Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) is located in Jupiter, Florida on the same campus as the UF Scripps Biomedical Research and Florida Atlantic University. In addition to the collaborative and flourishing neuroscience research environment, MPFI offers competitive employment benefits and compensation levels above the NIH pay scale.
Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their interest in the position here and send the following documents to Dr. Ryohei Yasuda by email (ryohei.yasuda@mpfi.org) for consideration:
- Curriculum vitae including publications
- Names and complete contact information for three references (faculty-level strongly encouraged)
- A research statement summarizing previous experience and interest in our group
Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience
