Postdoctoral Research Associate - Neural Circuits and Movement - Bikoff lab

Dr. Bikoff’s lab in the Department of Developmental Neurobiology at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to study motor circuitry in mice, with a focus on the synaptic and circuit organization of spinal neurons and their role in shaping motor output.

About the role

The lab investigates the organization and function of neural circuits controlling movement, particularly spinal circuits that directly regulate motor output. Research projects fall into three thematic areas:

• Dissecting the diversity of cell types in the nervous system
• Understanding the circuit architecture through which neurons receive and convey information
• Defining the functional role of these circuits in motor control

This position will specifically explore the synaptic and circuit organization of genetically defined spinal interneuron populations critical for movement, using approaches such as mouse genetics, viral tracing, single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, and advanced imaging.

Responsibilities

• Independently design, execute, and interpret experiments
• Apply mouse genetics, viral tools, and transcriptomic methods to study neural circuits
• Analyze large datasets using programming languages (e.g., R, Python)
• Collaborate in a multidisciplinary, team-oriented environment
• Communicate findings through publications and presentations

Requirements

• PhD or MD/PhD in neuroscience or a related discipline
• Strong experimental training and record of peer-reviewed publications
• Ability to work in a highly collaborative environment
• Excellent oral and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience studying neural circuits, including mouse genetics and viral tools
• Familiarity with programming languages (e.g., R, Python) and large datasets
• Experience with single-cell genomic or spatial transcriptomic approaches

About the institution

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is a world-class research institution focused on pediatric cancer and other catastrophic childhood diseases. As the first and only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children, it hosts 300 faculty across basic, translational, clinical, and population science, including Nobel laureates and members of the National Academy of Sciences and Medicine. The institution fosters a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary starting at $72,500 per year
• Comprehensive benefits and generous relocation assistance
• Access to shared resources, cutting-edge technology, and expert-led facilities
• Customized professional and career development programs, including grant writing workshops, individual development plans, teaching opportunities, and non-research career advancement programs
• Professional development allowance
• Vibrant postdoc community with a focus on work-life balance

Location

St. Jude is located in Memphis, Tennessee—a vibrant city known for its rich musical heritage, cultural diversity, and historic significance in trade, food, and arts.