The position

Evolutionary Neurobiology Unit is seeking one or two outstanding postdoctoral researchers. Our laboratory primarily uses early-diverging extant metazoans, such as cnidarians and ctenophores, to understand key biological events that likely occurred during the early stages of metazoan evolution (multicellularization, cell differentiation, embryonic development, tissue morphogenesis, and physiological adaptation). Current projects include evolutionary developmental biology (EvoDevo) of the nervous, muscular, and epithelial systems, as well as developmental and physiological studies in ancient marine environments.

Genomic and transcriptomic data for our model metazoans are already available in our Unit. We also possess a large amount of data on the metabolites and short peptides of these metazoans.

The successful candidate will be expected to independently pursue one or two of the following research topics, but not be limited to:

(1) Molecular mechanisms of cell type determination in early metazoans

(2) Function of ancient neurotransmitter candidates

(3) Evolution of cell adhesion protein complexes

(4) Body plan and gene expression in ancient marine environments

(5) Asexual growth patterns in early branching metazoans

Responsibilities

In the Evolutionary Neurobiology Unit, postdoctoral researchers will work on research projects in collaboration with the PI and other unit members. They are also expected to participate in field sampling, laboratory animal culture maintenance, and training and mentoring Ph.D. students, research interns, and rotation students.