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Openings for two postdoctoral research associates interested in studying neural structure and function in a nudibranch mollusc

Paul Katz’s lab at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (http://tinyurl.com/pkatzlab) is seeking two postdocs to join projects in collaboration with Jeff Lichtman’s lab at Harvard University.  We are looking for people who are knowledgeable in transcriptomics and/or connectomics to join ongoing projects related to multisensory systems and neurogenesis.

We have been pioneering the use of the nudibranch, Berghia stephanieae to ask fundamental questions about the structure and function of neural processing. Nudibranchs, like other gastropods, have central ganglia that continue to add neurons as the animal grows, increasing the number of neurons over 40 fold in just eight weeks. Individual neurons can be recognized at each developmental stage, some arise early and others later, providing an opportunity to compare synaptic organization and gene expression in the same neuron at different times. We are asking how newly born neurons become incorporated into functional neural circuits by combining 3D electron microscopy, cell tracing, single cell transcriptomics, and multiplexed in situ hybridization chain reaction to create developmental cell atlases.

We are also examining the structure and function of the rhinophore complex in Berghia. The rhinophores are distance chemoreceptive appendages that contain thousands of peripheral neurons. At the base of each rhinophore is a ganglion that has more neurons than the so-called brain. We are determining whether this ganglion has structural features that are analogous to an insect antennal lobe or whether it has a uniquely molluscan organization that includes peripheral processing. The structural basis for olfaction has not yet been determined in molluscs. This project could help determine whether molluscs fundamentally differ from other known systems in how olfactory receptor neurons are organized into circuits.

Postdocs will develop their individual projects with the expectation that they will build an independent research program. Postdocs are expected to mentor and work as a team with students in the lab. We work to foster a cooperative, inclusive environment in the lab.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst has a large and growing neuroscience community. Smith, Mt. Holyoke, Amherst, and Hampshire Colleges are all nearby and contribute to the academic environment. Amherst is located about 2 hours west of Boston. There is train service to New York City as well. Amherst is situated in the Connecticut River Valley, convenient to skiing in the Berkshire Mountains and Vermont. There is a lively music scene and art scene.

Applicants should send a cover letter, with contact information for three references, and a c.v. to pkatz@umass.edu. Applications will be considered as they are received.

UMass Amherst is committed to a policy of equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, disability, military status, or genetic information in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services, and the selection of vendors who provide services or products to the University. To fulfill that policy, UMass Amherst is further committed to a program of affirmative action to eliminate or mitigate artificial barriers and to increase opportunities for the recruitment and advancement of qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans. It is the policy of the UMass Amherst to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action.

Techniques include:

Postdoc applicants should send a cover letter, with names and contact information of three references, and cv to pkatz@umass.edu. 

Prospective PhD students should apply through one of three graduate programs:

Applicants are encouraged to email pkatz@umass.edu as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, we are not going to be taking any new undergraduate researchers for Fall 2023. Check https://bua.bio.umass.edu/ for other research opportunities.