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How to Apply

  • Submit your CV with a cover letter describing how your research interests fit with the job description
  • Submit two letters of reference

Summary

A Postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Prof. Swathi Yadlapalli at the University of Michigan ([email protected]). We study molecular and cellular mechanisms that control circadian rhythms and sleep using Drosophila and mammalian model systems. The goal of the lab is to understand the cell biology of circadian clocks which remains the least understood aspect of clocks by investigating the role of: 1) clock protein condensates, 2) chromatin organization, and 3) clock mRNA localization on circadian rhythms. Our group employs an array of techniques, that includes high-resolution live imaging, genetic, high-throughput genomics, proteomics, and quantitative behavioral assays to achieve a mechanistic understanding of how circadian clocks are organized and regulated inside a living cell. 

Our lab has recently developed several novel cell biological approaches (Xiao et al., Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 2021, Yuan et al., Front. Physiol. 2022, Yuan et al., bioRxiv 2023) that enabled, for the first time, visualization of clock complexes at subcellular resolution in live cells. Contrary to the long-standing assumption that clock neurons are composed of a mixture of clock proteins, genes, and mRNAs that are freely diffusing and interact with each other via random collisions, my lab has recently made the surprising discovery that clock neurons possess a complex spatiotemporal subcellular organization which is critical for generating circadian rhythms (Xiao et al., Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 2021, Yuan et al., Front. Physiol. 2022). The postdoctoral fellow will have the freedom to ask exciting questions to study the ?cell biology of circadian clocks? using cutting-edge tools.

Our lab offers a stimulating environment with freedom to develop new research directions. The postdoc will be an NIH funded position at NRSA postdoctoral stipend levels plus benefits. The trainee will have regular opportunities to interact with our collaborators at University of Michigan and at other institutions and present their research. The trainee will be provided mentorship for career development and opportunities tailored towards individual career goals and will have the opportunity to apply for fellowships and grants.

Required Qualifications*

  • Qualified candidates must have recently graduated with a PhD in biology/cell biology/biochemistry/neuroscience.
  • Experience with molecular biology, cell biology, protein biochemistry, next-generation sequencing techniques.
  • Collaborative, ambitious individuals with a strong interest in our lab?s research.
  • Ability to work independently to develop research projects and mentor other trainees.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Background Screening

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings.  Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.