Postdoctoral Position in Spinal Cord Regeneration

The Cigliola Laboratory invites applications for a Postdoc Position. Our lab is dedicated to identifying strategies for reversing paralysis after spinal cord injury. We deploy frontline genetics, transcriptomics, in vivo cellular, molecular, and behavioral approaches in zebrafish and mouse models to uncover Mechanisms of Spinal Cord Regeneration. We are located within the Pharmacology Department of Vanderbilt University and are members of the Vanderbilt Brain Institute. 

While in humans and adult mammals spinal cord injury causes lifelong paralysis, zebrafish possess an astounding capacity to regenerate and recover function after a paralyzing injury. We are interested in the following questions: What are the factors and mechanisms allowing innate spinal cord regeneration? How are these mechanisms regulated? Can regeneration in adult mammals be enhanced by re-establishment of innate pro-regenerative programs? Overall, our goal is to contribute to the development of strategies to awaken spinal cord regeneration in adult mammals. 

We are looking for curiosity-driven, motivated and ambitious candidates with interest for regenerative biology and neuroscience. The optimal candidate will have shown scientific rigor, productivity, critical thinking and creativity. Previous experience in neuroscience, molecular biology, transcriptomics, imaging, histology are required. Enthusiasm for working with zebrafish and/or mice is essential. We strongly value team spirit, a positive work environment and collaborations. 

The Department of Pharmacology is one of the most distinguished Pharmacology departments in the country. Research interests include seven major areas: signal transduction mechanisms, neuronal communication and synaptic signaling, bioactive lipids, molecular basis of neuropsychiatric disorders, structural biology, drug discovery, and cancer biology. For information about research in the laboratory visit https://www.cigliola-lab.com. 

Please send your application in a single PDF, including (1) a cover letter that includes a description of research interests and experience, (2) CV, (3) contact information of 3 references, (4) a writing sample mailed directly to valentina.cigliola@vanderbilt.edu. Review of applications will begin immediately, and the position will remain open until filled.