A position is available in the Iliev Laboratory https://ilievlab.org/ at Weill Cornell Medicine for highly motivated scientist , a recent graduate, interested in neuroimmunology, neuroscience, the gut-brain axis, and host microbiota interactions.



Research Focus



The successful candidate will join a rapidly growing research program focused on deciphering the molecular, cellular, and neural mechanisms of gut-brain communication. We seek candidates interested in answering fundamental questions about how the immune system and microbiota shape neural circuits, pain, behavior, and neurological disease.



Leveraging unique human cohorts, translational patient studies, and mechanistic animal models, our laboratory uses immune perturbations as discovery tools to uncover pathways through which microbial signals influence brain function and pain. A major goal is to identify neural circuits that are activated or protected by specific immune and microbial pathways and to define how these interactions contribute to health and disease.



Projects may explore:

• How immune and microbial signals reshape brain function and behavior

• How specific immune deficiencies increase susceptibility to neurological and neuroinflammatory disorders

• How neural circuits regulate intestinal inflammation and pain • How microbial and fungal metabolites influence neuronal and glial activity

• Identification and functional manipulation of brain circuits regulated by microbiota-dependent signaling

• Human translational studies integrating microbiome, immune, metabolomic, imaging, and clinical datasets • How computational and AI-based approaches can assist the expiration of novel biological mechanisms



Desired Background



We are seeking recent PhD graduates with strong interest and training in one or more of the following:

• Neuroimmunology, neuroscience, neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, glial biology, or brain immune interactions

• Mouse models of neurological or inflammatory disease, behavioral analysis, flow cytometry, or advanced imaging

• Neuroscience techniques including calcium imaging, neuronal cultures, stereotactic surgery, AAV based approaches, optogenetics, and chemogenetics • Experience or desire to learn tissue clearing and 3D imaging methods such as iDISCO and light-sheet microscopy

• Computational and analytical skills are highly desirable.



Required Qualifications



• PhD, MD/PhD, or equivalent degree in neuroscience, neuroimmunology or a related field

• Strong publication record, including at least one first-author publication (published, accepted, or available as a preprint)

• Demonstrated research accomplishments in neuroscience, neuroimmunology, or related discipline • Strong quantitative, analytical, and scientific communication skills

• Ability to work independently while contributing to highly collaborative interdisciplinary projects



What We Offer



• Rigorous training in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.

• Integration within the Jill Roberts Institute and the broader Weill Cornell / Rockefeller / Sloan Kettering Tri-Institutional community, providing access to a vibrant scientific ecosystem.

• State-of-the-art facilities and core resources.

• Opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and career development.



Application Process:



Applicants must submit to idi@ilievlab.org a single PDF containing all of the following:

1. Curriculum vitae

2. Motivation/fit statement (1–2 pages) describing: o Why you are interested in joining the Iliev Laboratory and how the position aligns with your long term career goals o Your research interests and scientific motivation o Relevant technical, experimental, computational, and analytical expertise mastered during your training.

3. Brief summary of research accomplishments 4. Full list of publications (published, accepted, and in preparation) 5. Names and contact information for three references