Neuroscience (Associate Professor)

About the role

The St-Pierre lab in the Department of Neuroscience at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX, seeks an Associate Professor (non-tenure track) to characterize and apply novel light-responsive proteins, including genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) and optogenetic silencers such as kalium channelrhodopsins (KCRs) and anion channelrhodopsins (ACRs), to advance tools for imaging and controlling neural activity.

Responsibilities

• Characterize light-gated ion channels (including KCRs and ACRs) using patch clamp electrophysiology in HEK293 cells and cultured neurons, assessing photocurrent amplitude, kinetics, ion selectivity, and spectral sensitivity.
• Evaluate GEVI performance in mammalian cell culture and brain slice preparations using fluorescence and two-photon microscopy.
• Perform structure-function analysis through site-directed mutagenesis to optimize protein properties.
• Discover and clone novel channelrhodopsins and fluorescent biosensors from genomic and metagenomic sources.
• Maintain and troubleshoot electrophysiology rigs and optical imaging systems.
• Analyze data using commercial software and custom pipelines.
• Mentor and train junior lab members in techniques and experimental design.
• Present research findings in lab meetings and at national or international conferences.
• Take a leading role in writing grants and manuscripts related to their primary projects, and contribute, as appropriate, to other grants and manuscripts from the lab.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a related field.

Experience with electrophysiology, molecular biology, and optical imaging techniques.

Strong publication record in high-impact journals.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.

Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.

Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

Postdoctoral training in neuroscience or a related field.

Experience with genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) and optogenetics.

Experience with patch clamp electrophysiology and optical imaging techniques.

Experience with molecular cloning and protein expression.

Experience with data analysis and visualization.

Skills

Expertise in electrophysiology and optical imaging techniques.

Experience with molecular biology techniques, including PCR, DNA sequencing, and protein expression.

Experience with data analysis and visualization using commercial software and custom pipelines.

Benefits

Baylor College of Medicine offers a competitive salary and benefits package.

Pay

Salary is commensurate with experience.

Schedule

The position is full-time, 40 hours per week.