Job Description

At the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Center for Precision Psychiatry & Mental Health, we envision a near future when mental illness is treated in novel, targeted, and tailored ways, based on a new understanding of how mental illness develops and persists, unique to each individual. Our mission is to apply advances in neuroscience, technology and precision medicine to psychiatry; to create breakthroughs that further our understanding of the biological causes and underpinnings of mental illness; and to discover treatments that alleviate suffering from conditions previously considered untreatable. By addressing biological causes, and identifying genetic and other biological markers, the SNF Center will eliminate the stigma of mental illnesses and address societal disparities by ensuring equitable access to breakthrough Precision Psychiatry treatments.

A Postdoctoral Research Scientist position is available in the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Center for Precision Psychiatry & Mental Health and the Zuckerman Institute, to study in vivo synaptic, cellular, and molecular mechanisms of learning and memory deficits in mouse models of neuropsychiatric disorders with the ultimate goal to facilitate translational efforts and develop new targeted treatments. The successful candidate will join a leading group of researchers using cutting-edge optical microscopy (ie.,  ultrafast, random access 3-dimensional acousto-optical microscopy with real-time motion correction) in combination with the latest generation of genetically encoded voltage, calcium, and neurotransmitter sensors to dissect the organization and function of hippocampal and cortical circuits during spatial and episodic learning.

Situated in the heart of Manhattan in New York City, the Zuckerman Institute houses over 50 laboratories employing a broad range of interdisciplinary and diverse approaches to transform our understanding of the mind and brain. In this highly collaborative and inclusive environment, experimental, computational, and theoretical labs work together to gain critical insights into how the brain develops, performs, endures and recovers.

Duties involve the following tasks:

· Conduct laboratory research using cutting-edge optical microscopy;

·Desig n and perform experiments; collect and analyze data;

· Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals;

· Engage in scientific communication at conferences and training of junior lab members

TITLE THIS POSITION REPORTS TO : Joseph Gogos, Steven Kushner and Attila Losonczy

Applicants should have a PhD in neuroscience or physics/optical engineering, and a strong publication record. Expertise with in vivo functional imaging is required. Strong background in quantitative analysis of neuronal recordings and related programming skills (e.g., Python, Matlab), superior motivation, drive and demonstrated aptitude for carrying out independent research, as well as experience and interest in training and mentoring team members, are highly desirable qualifications.

Candidates should submit their application, including a curriculum vitae, a brief cover letter outlining their research interests and goals, and the contact information of three individuals who will provide letters of reference. Informal inquiries are also welcome. 

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Pay Transparency Disclosure

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training.  The above hiring range represents the University?s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

About Columbia University

Columbia University is one of the world's most important centers of research and at the same time a distinctive and distinguished learning environment for undergraduates and graduate students in many scholarly and professional fields. The University recognizes the importance of its location in New York City and seeks to link its research and teaching to the vast resources of a great metropolis. It seeks to attract a diverse and international faculty and student body, to support research and teaching on global issues, and to create academic relationships with many countries and regions. It expects all areas of the university to advance knowledge and learning at the highest level and to convey the products of its efforts to the world.

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