The Chapman lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is looking for three highly motivated postdoctoral researchers or senior scientists to join our dynamic and highly collaborative group studying aspects of neuroscience. Our HHMI and NIH funded lab is interested in Ca2+ regulated synaptic vesicle (and large dense core vesicle) exocytosis, neuronal cell biology, and synaptic transmission/plasticity.
A successful candidate for the first position will conduct patch clamp experiments using cultured neurons and brain slices, using genetically modified mice, to measure synaptic depression, paired pulse facilitation, and other aspects of synaptic plasticity.
For the second position, the successful candidate will perform recombinant protein purification and reconstitution (using nanodiscs, liposomes, and planar lipid bilayers) to conduct single molecule experiments (fluorescence, AFM, and black lipid membrane) to probe the structure and function of fusion pores.
A successful candidate for the third position will be involved in a variety of electron microscopy (EM) projects. One series of projects will revolve around cryo-EM and single particle analysis of recombinant fusion machines that have been reconstituted into nanodiscs. Another effort is to address aspects of the synaptic vesicle cycle in pre-synaptic boutons in neurons. This latter project will involve ‘zap-and-freeze’ EM of cultured neurons, to capture intermediates in the vesicle cycle, followed by either sectioning and TEM, or via cryo-EM tomography. Additional projects will involve CLEM.
Other goals for these positions are to: elucidate the structure and dynamics of fusion pores in vitro and in living cells, understand how the interplay between various organelles influences synaptic function, assign functions to synaptic vesicle (and other presynaptic proteins), and to alter the oscillation frequency of neuronal circuits. These postdoctoral researchers/senior scientists are also expected to contribute ideas, interact and collaborate with other lab members and other laboratories, and to prepare manuscripts for publication. Senior scientists are expected to oversee graduate students and post-doctoral researchers as well as to participate in grant writing.
Requirements for position 1
· A Ph.D. or equivalent degree in neuroscience or related discipline is required. A strong background in electrophysiology is essential for this position. Experience conducting patch clamp recordings in cultured neurons and brain slices is highly preferred. Experience with viral expression of proteins in specific brain regions is also highly valued.
· Analysis of electrophysiology data.
· Self-motivated, able to work independently and as part of a team.
· Strong verbal and written communication skills.
· Not required but preferred skills include familiarity with fluorescent imaging or optogenetics, and analysis of imaging data.
Requirements for position 2
· A Ph.D. or equivalent degree in neuroscience or related discipline is required. A strong background in nanodisc technology and/or single molecule fluorescence experiments is essential for this position. Experience with AFM and/or planar lipid bilayer electrophysiology is also highly valued.
· Analysis of data.
· Self-motivated, able to work independently and as part of a team.
· Strong verbal and written communication skills
Requirements for position 3
· A Ph.D. or equivalent degree in neuroscience or related discipline is required. Candidates should have experience with cryo-EM, single particle analysis, high pressure freezing, freeze substitution and TEM. Experience with CLEM would be an additional strength.
· Analysis of data.
· Self-motivated, able to work independently and as part of a team.
· Strong verbal and written communication skills
Interested applicants should send their cover letter and CV to cgreer2@wisc.edu.