Postdoctoral Positions in Neuroscience and Organic Chemistry at UC San Diego

Multiple postdoctoral positions are available in the laboratory of Dr. Matthew Banghart in the Department of Neurobiology at the University of California San Diego.

Neuroscience Fellows are sought to work on two overlapping projects. Our Neuropeptide Release research program aims to identify cellular mechanisms governing neuropeptide secretion from mammalian central neurons. Our Pain Modulation research program aims to uncover the neural circuits that support top-down pain modulation (e.g., placebo analgesia) and the actions of pharmacological pain-killers such as opioid analgesics. These research programs intersect, as neuropeptide signaling is a central to pain processing and its modulation. Please see the lab website for more information.

Approaches employed include brain slice electrophysiology, 2-photon imaging in brain slices, in vivo fiber photometry (with genetically-encoded optical neuropeptide and Ca2+ sensors), in vivo single cell Ca2+ imaging, in vivo photo-uncaging of drugs and neuropeptides, and automated measurement of pain-related behavior in mice. Candidates must have a PhD in Neuroscience or a related discipline, as well as substantial experience with electrophysiology, fluorescence imaging, or rodent behavioral analysis. Experience in pain research would be advantageous.

In addition, an Organic Chemistry Fellow is sought to work on the development of light-activated drugs and neuropeptides that will drive studies into the neural mechanisms of peptide signaling and drug action. A major goal is to improve the in vivo compatibility of photochemical caging groups that can be used for photopharmacology in behaving mice, and eventually, in humans. Candidates must have a PhD in chemistry and a strong record in small molecule synthesis. Additional knowledge in photochemistry and/or peptide synthesis would be advantageous.

Funding is available but fellows will be encouraged to apply for fellowships and mentored through the process.

The Banghart Lab is located in the Center for Neural Circuits and Behavior (CNCB). The UCSD Neuroscience community is a vibrant and stimulating group comprised of labs from multiple departments, and includes labs from the nearby Salk and Scripps Research Institutes. We are proud to work in a highly interactive research environment that embraces diversity and work-life balance in addition to scientific excellence. These positions will offer opportunities to write grants, train students and present findings at professional conferences.

Salary and benefits will be commensurate with experience in accordance with UCSD guidelines: https://biology.ucsd.edu/jobs/postdoc.html. Please note that due to recent contract renegotiations the current pay scale will increase considerably over the next few years at all levels, for example, such that a Level 5 fellow will be paid $85,735/yr after 10/1/26.

Applicants should send their CV, a brief (1 page max) statement on background and interests, and contact information for at least two references to Dr. Banghart at mbanghart@ucsd.edu.

www.banghartlab.org              https://postdoc.ucsd.edu/                    https://pda.ucsd.edu/