Postdoctoral Fellow - Molecular Neuroanatomy

Description

A Little About Us:

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) was established in 2010 to plot a new course in biomedical research that would change the lives of individuals affected with developmental brain disorders. We are one of the only research institutions in the world focused specifically on understanding how genes and the environment influence the way our brains develop that lead to conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, bipolar disorder and related developmental brain disorders. Through our cutting-edge research, answers are emerging and being translated into a robust pipeline of new drugs in development. And, by focusing on genes and their dynamic interplay with the environment, we are getting even closer to the “holy grail” in medical research, the discovery of strategies for primary prevention.

We are a group of dedicated, multidisciplinary and optimistic researchers, working at the cutting edge of science, utilizing state-of-the-art tools to unlock the mystery of the brain and transform the way we approach the development of new treatments, and ultimately cures. LIBD is an independent 501(c)(3) medical research institute located in the Bioscience Park on the campus of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital in Baltimore, MD.

Job Summary:

We are seeking an enthusiastic and self-motivated Postdoctoral Fellow with significant experience in analysis of single nucleus RNA-sequencing (snRNA-seq) data to join our interdisciplinary research team at the Lieber Institute for Brain Development located on the Johns Hopkins medical campus in Baltimore, Maryland (https://www.libd.org/functional-genomics/). This position is open to computational neuroscientists seeking a position within a translational research setting with a focus on analysis of single cell and spatial transcriptomics data in postmortem human brain tissue. In particular, we are studying gene expression changes associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) and comorbid opioid use disorder (OUD) in the human habenula and other key hubs of reward circuitry with the goal of better understanding addiction and neuropsychiatric disorders. Candidates should have training in neuroscience and previous experience analyzing single cell RNA-seq datasets. Expertise in reward circuits and molecular mechanisms underlying stress and addiction is highly desirable. 

Overview Of Duties:

• Analysis of large-scale snRNA-seq dataset from control, MDD, and MDD/OUD human habenula samples (n=60), including differential expression analysis and integration with existing datasets
• Analysis of human habenula spatial transcriptomics data (Visium, Xenium)

· Manuscript Preparation

· Communication of scientific findings through internal and external presentations

Requirements

Required Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD in Neuroscience or a closely related field
• Experience with genomic data analysis using R/Bioconductor packages for one or more projects
• Evidence of computational skills and code version control through GitHub or similar options
• Understanding of statistical methods such as linear regression, interaction models, ANOVA, t-Student and F distributions, p-values, false discovery rate (FDR), and mixed effects models
• Familiarity with snRNA-seq data analysis pipelines, including quality control, dimension reduction, batch effect removal, clustering, marker gene finding, cluster annotation, pseudo-bulk differential expression, over-representation analysis, and exploratory data analysis.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Demonstrated leadership skills and participation in multidisciplinary team-oriented activities
• Initiative to learn new methods and ability to work in a team are essential.

Familiarity with any of the following topics or techniques is a plus:

• R/Bioconductor package development
• Programming in Python
• Using Linux and high-performance computing environments using SLURM queue manager
• Experience leading manuscript preparation
• Molecular mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric disorders and addiction
• Habenula cell types and circuitry
• Wet bench experience
• Familiarity with generation of single cell and spatial transcriptomics data

Physical Requirements:

• Remaining in a seated or standing position for extended periods of time;
• Reaching and grasping to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard;
• Communication skills using the spoken and written word;
• Prolonged ability to view computer screen, paper reports/documents, charts and results;
• Having the ability to receive detailed information through oral communications;
• Mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as small office furnishings, reams of paper, a laptop computer or files);
• All other physical demands in a standard office environment.

** If accommodations are needed due to pregnancy or a disability, please contact jobs@libd.org.  

Compensation

Compensation will be based on the candidate’s postdoctoral experience and is consistent with the NIH NRSA stipends, which currently range from $62,232 (entry-level) to $75,564 (7+ years of experience).

Benefits

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package to help us attract and retain the best talent. Please visit https://www.libd.org/careers/benefits/ for more information.

EEOC Statement: At the Lieber Institute, we are committed to a work environment of mutual respect where employment decisions are based on merit. As an equal opportunity employer, the Lieber Institute does not discriminate in employment opportunities on the basis of race, color, religion, color, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, military service, or other non-merit based factors protected by state or federal law or local ordinance, with regard to any position or employment for which the applicant or employee is qualified. 

LIEBER INSTITUTE FOR BRAIN DEVELOPMENT'S COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development is a transparent and collaborative community working to produce unique and imaginative patient-oriented solutions to developmental neuropsychiatric disorders. It is committed to integrating scientists from diverse disciplines, cultures, and countries into a research team that draws upon the best of its staff. The Institute is historic—it is defining a unique model for ground-breaking science. It values translational science that revolutionizes the field and improves the quality of life for those affected by mental illness. The Institute provides an environment that fosters independent growth through mentorship and a supportive, collegial community. Diverse minds, ideas, and talent are needed to support LIBD's mission. Fresh, innovative ideas and perspectives are a competitive necessity in an increasingly diverse and global marketplace. The success of the Institute's mission depends upon leveraging a diversity of talent.

The Institute's commitment to diversity goes beyond compliance with laws and regulations that promote equal employment opportunity, prohibit discrimination and harassment, and support minority and woman owned businesses. To realize the advantages of its diversity, it is necessary to work effectively together even when differences challenge us to consider ideas and methods that seem impractical or make us feel uncomfortable. 

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development demonstrates its commitment to diversity by:

• Including others: Talent is not limited to those with a narrow set of industry and academic credentials. The Institute is committed to building diverse teams, inviting others to share their perspectives, seeking out a diversity of input when making decisions, questioning traditional thinking, and promoting continuous learning and development.
• Respecting one another: The Institute is committed to listening carefully to others, seeking consensus, engaging in active and constructive debate, thoughtfully challenging one another, and providing constructive feedback.
• Building trust: The Institute is committed to sharing information and resources, depending on one another to get things done, keeping promises, and conveying high integrity in all actions.