POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR GENE MODELS FOR AUTISM Full-time NEW

A Postdoctoral Scholar position is available immediately in the laboratory of Dr. Brian J. O’Roak in the Department of Molecular & Medical Genetics (MMG) at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). The O’Roak Lab investigates how mutations in key autism risk genes, particularly transcription factors, disrupt neurodevelopmental processes. The position offers the opportunity to apply cutting-edge developmental neuroscience, genomic, and physiological approaches to understand how these mutations alter molecular, cellular, synaptic, and circuit-level functions. Candidates may employ human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell–derived neural models, in vivorodent models, or integrative approaches spanning both systems.

Highlights of Dr. O’Roak’s past research successes include pioneering trio-based exome sequencing in simplex autism and developing new technologies for rapid targeted resequencing and variant function interrogation. Over the past decade, the lab has expanded into generating iPS cell and rodent models to dissect how autism-associated mutations in transcription factors alter neurodevelopmental programs (e.g., Co et al., 2022). OHSU is a highly collaborative environment. Postdoctoral Scholars will have the opportunity to interact with a large and vibrant neuroscience community and clinical research programs focused on autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders.

For this project, we have formed key collaborations within MMG and the Vollum Institute labs. Our outstanding research team includes labs with complementary expertise in:

·       Genomics (O’Roak, Adey, Schaffer, MMG)

·       Genetic mouse models (Wright, Jackman, Vollum)

·       Stem cell models of neurodevelopmental disorders (Schaffer, O’Roak)

·       Single-cell technologies (Adey, O’Roak)

·       Electrophysiology and mouse behavior (Jackman).

While Dr. O’Roak will be the primary mentor for this position, there is the opportunity for co-mentorship with one of these other labs, depending on the candidate’s interests. We anticipate five years of dedicated funding for this position and many of the needed genetic models have already been generated. We anticipate five years of dedicated funding for this position, with many of the genetic models already in place. Postdoctoral Scholars receive competitive salary and benefits, including relocation assistance, and will join a vibrant neuroscience and genetics community with numerous opportunities for collaboration, professional development, and career advancement.

Position requirements include:

– A PhD degree in neuroscience, cell/molecular biology, genetics or related field

– A strong interest in developmental neuroscience

– A demonstrated ability to work independently and learn new techniques quickly

– Candidates must be well organized, self-motivated and dependable

– Excellent communication skills with the ability to plan, document, analyze and report data

Preferred Qualifications:

– Preferred experiences include, characterizing rodent models, iPS cell work, neuronal culture, analyzing –omics datasets, and expertise in microscopy.