Two full-time postdoctoral positions are available in the Department of Neurology at the Sandler Neurosciences Center (UCSF Mission Bay) to take leadng roles in NIH-funded projects to understand how axonal injury signaling can be harnessed to promote neuroprotection and neural repair. The Watkins Lab recently moved to UCSF from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, generating opportunities for exciting new directions at the interface between intrinsic neuronal stress responses and other active projects within the Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology. Our lab specializes in using relatively simple models of axon damage to decipher how cellular stress signaling controls the fates of neurons during injury and disease. These responses can, at least in the case of the peripheral nervous system, sometimes support remarkable recovery of function. Yet they can also become a major driver of neurodegeneration in the CNS. A combination of approaches -- from molecular engineering of new tools to cell culture to mouse models -- is allowing us to decipher the transcriptional factor combinatorial code at the heart of these divergent outcomes. Postdocs have the opportunity to drive fundamental research with direct relevance to peripheral nerve regeneration, glaucoma, and other neurodegenerative diseases, while generating insights that may ultimately guide CNS repair after spinal cord injury or traumatic brain injury.

UCSF is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We seek candidates whose experience, teaching, research, or community service has prepared them to contribute to diversity and excellence. We strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, socioeconomic background. We value creativity, initiative, enthusiasm, ingenuity, honesty and integrity.

Job Requirements: 

• Ph.D. in neurosciences, cell biology, or related disciplines.
• Research background in neurodegeneration, axon regeneration, transcriptional regulation, and/or cell signaling preferred.
• Skill and motivation to take on a leadership role in designing and executing research projects.

How to Apply: 

Please send CV, cover letter, and contact information for at least two references to: [email protected].