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Lieber Institute, Inc.

Postdoctoral Fellow

Lieber Institute, Inc., Baltimore, Maryland, United States, 21276

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Description The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) was established in 2010 to plot a new course in biomedical research that would change the lives of individuals affected with developmental brain disorders. We are one of the only research institutions in the world focused specifically on understanding how genes and the environment influence the way our brains develop that lead to conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, bipolar disorder and related developmental brain disorders. Through our cutting-edge research, answers are emerging and being translated into a robust pipeline of new drugs in development. And, by focusing on genes and their dynamic interplay with the environment, we are getting even closer to the “holy grail” in medical research, the discovery of strategies for primary prevention.

We are a group of dedicated, multidisciplinary and optimistic researchers, working at the cutting edge of science, utilizing state-of-the-art tools to unlock the mystery of the brain and transform the way we approach the development of new treatments, and ultimately cures. LIBD is an independent 501(c)(3) medical research institute located in the Bioscience Park on the campus of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital in Baltimore, MD.

Job Summary We are seeking an enthusiastic and self-motivated Postdoctoral Fellow with significant experience in analysis of single nucleus RNA-sequencing (snRNA-seq) data to join our interdisciplinary research team at the Lieber Institute for Brain Development located on the Johns Hopkins medical campus in Baltimore, Maryland. This position is open to computational neuroscientists seeking a position within a translational research setting with a focus on analysis of single cell and spatial transcriptomics data in postmortem human brain tissue. In particular, we are studying gene expression changes associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) and comorbid opioid use disorder (OUD) in the human habenula and other key hubs of reward circuitry with the goal of better understanding addiction and neuropsychiatric disorders. Candidates should have training in neuroscience and previous experience analyzing single cell RNA-seq datasets. Expertise in reward circuits and molecular mechanisms underlying stress and addiction is highly desirable.

Overview of Duties

Analysis of large-scale snRNA-seq dataset from control, MDD, and MDD/OUD human habenula samples (n=60), including differential expression analysis and integration with existing datasets

Analysis of human habenula spatial transcriptomics data (Visium, Xenium)

Manuscript preparation

Communication of scientific findings through internal and external presentations

Requirements Required Minimum Qualifications

PhD in Neuroscience or a closely related field

Experience with genomic data analysis using R/Bioconductor packages for one or more projects

Evidence of computational skills and code version control through GitHub or similar options

Understanding of statistical methods such as linear regression, interaction models, ANOVA, t-Student and F distributions, p-values, false discovery rate (FDR), and mixed effects models

Familiarity with snRNA-seq data analysis pipelines, including quality control, dimension reduction, batch effect removal, clustering, marker gene finding, cluster annotation, pseudo-bulk differential expression, over-representation analysis, and exploratory data analysis

Excellent organizational and communication skills

Demonstrated leadership skills and participation in multidisciplinary team-oriented activities

Initiative to learn new methods and ability to work in a team are essential

Familiarity with any of the following topics or techniques is a plus:

R/Bioconductor package development

Programming in Python

Using Linux and high-performance computing environments using SLURM queue manager

Experience leading manuscript preparation

Molecular mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric disorders and addiction

Habenula cell types and circuitry

Wet bench experience

Familiarity with generation of single cell and spatial transcriptomics data

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a seated or standing position for extended periods of time

Reaching and grasping to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard

Communication skills using the spoken and written word

Prolonged ability to view computer screen, paper reports/documents, charts and results

Having the ability to receive detailed information through oral communications

Mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as small office furnishings, reams of paper, a laptop computer or files)

All other physical demands in a standard office environment

If accommodations are needed due to pregnancy or a disability, please contact jobs@libd.org.

Compensation Compensation will be based on the candidate’s postdoctoral experience and is consistent with the NIH NRSA stipends, which currently range from $62,232 (entry-level) to $75,564 (7+ years of experience).

Benefits The Lieber Institute for Brain Development offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package to help us attract and retain the best talent. Please visit the LIBD careers benefits page for more information.

EEOC Statement At the Lieber Institute, we are committed to a work environment of mutual respect where employment decisions are based on merit. As an equal opportunity employer, the Lieber Institute does not discriminate in employment opportunities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, military service, or other non-merit based factors protected by state or federal law or local ordinance, with regard to any position or employment for which the applicant or employee is qualified.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion The Lieber Institute for Brain Development is committed to diversity and inclusion. It values diverse disciplines, cultures, and backgrounds to advance its mission. The Institute describes its commitments through statements on teamwork, respect, trust, and inclusion, and seeks to build diverse teams and perspectives to drive innovation.

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