The Department of Neuroscience at West Virginia University Research Corporation is currently accepting applications for a Post Doctoral Fellow in Synaptic Molecular Biology and Super-Resolution Imaging at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute.

About the Opportunity

The laboratory of Martin Hruska, Ph.D., is seeking a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Associate to investigate the molecular biology of synapses using advanced imaging techniques, including STED super-resolution microscopy. Our research explores the fundamental mechanisms of synapse formation, plasticity, and remodeling, with a focus on how these processes are disrupted in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.

The successful candidate will lead a project examining the structural and molecular underpinnings of synaptic remodeling that drive brain plasticity in health and neurodegeneration. This work leverages molecular biology, biochemistry, and cutting-edge imaging methods to uncover how nanoscale synaptic architecture regulates neuronal function.

At WVU Research Corporation, we strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU Research Corporation offers a comprehensive benefits package with a variety of options to suit your needs:

• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• Paid Time off (PTO)
• 403(b) retirement savings with a fully vested 3% employee contribution match, (Employees have the option of contributing an additional 1-3% of their earnings to the plan, which is also matched by the WVURC)
• A range of health insurance and other benefits
• Dependent Education Scholarship
• WVU Perks

What You'll Do

• Perform molecular and imaging analyses to investigate nanoscale synaptic organization.
• Use STED microscopy to resolve synaptic components in cultured neurons and brain sections.
• Design and conduct experiments on synaptic remodeling and plasticity.
• Maintain high standards of laboratory organization and academic integrity.
• Conduct literature reviews, analyze data, and prepare manuscripts.
• Present findings at national and international conferences.

• Ph.D. in neuroscience, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
• Experience in the following:
  • Expertise in synaptic biology, plasticity, and/or neurodegenerative disease models.
  • Hands-on experience with super-resolution microscopy techniques (preferably STED) and imaging of neuronal cultures or brain tissue.
  • Proficiency in cell culture preparation, protein quantification, confocal microscopy, and data analytics.
  • Coding skills (e.g., Java, Python) are a plus.
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Super-resolution imaging
• DNA manipulation/cloning
• CRISPR technology
• Cell culture preparation
• AAV purification/injections
• PCR, Western blotting, and protein assays
• Independent thinking

• Biohazards training certificate (CITI) Human subjects training certificate (CITI)
• Conflict of interest in research certificate (CITI)
  These are federal regulations; the candidate can complete them after beginning the position if s/he is not already certified before being hired.

The WVURC was created as a not-for-profit corporation in 1985 to support research (R1) at West Virginia University.  We provide evaluation, development, patenting, management, and marketing services for inventions of the faculty, staff and students of the University.

The WVURC receives and administers funds awarded by external agencies for research and other activities and is responsible for helping protect intellectual property through patents, copyrights and licensing agreements for start-up companies based on University research.

West Virginia University Research Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.