Postdoctoral Fellowship Position in Neurobiology of Autism at the University of Texas Health
Science Center at San Antonio

Great opportunity to participate in autism research

This posting is to fill an open postdoctoral fellowship position in the laboratory of Hye Young Lee, PhD in the Department of Cellular & Integrative Physiology, School of Medicine. The Lee Lab studies the molecular neurobiology and etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related neuropsychiatric disorders, using a range of cutting-edge molecular, cellular and integrative approaches on multiple topics including inflammation, development and gene editing therapeutics. ASD forms a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental syndrome characterized by deficits in language development/social interactions and repetitive behavior/restricted interests. ASD likely arises from a complex combination of genetics and risk factors. However, it is possible that certain aspects of ASD molecular pathophysiology can determine the underlying neurobiological basis of ASD. And, understanding underlying mechanisms will help not only understanding the basis of these disorders, but also will contribute to develop therapeutic treatments for ASD.

The Lee Lab focuses on: 1) identifying the molecular mechanisms responsible for the pathophysiology of ASD and related disorders, and using these mechanisms to rescue behavioral dysfunction in mouse models, 2) elucidating specific autistic behaviors, including social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors, and identifying the brain region(s) and neuron groups underlying these behavioral deficits in mouse models, and 3) developing potential therapeutic treatments for ASD by targeting gene regulation with small molecules and CRISPR using autism patient cells and autism mouse models. To address these questions, our lab employs molecular and cellular neurobiology tools, in vivo brain imaging, and animal behavioral studies.

Individuals with experience or interest in these research areas, who are self-motivated and have a passion for ASD research are encouraged to apply. Applicants are encouraged to view the recent publications and related review papers of Dr. Lee who trained with Dr. Lily Jan at University of California San Francisco (UCSF). Our recent study has been published in Nature Biomedical Engineering (2018, 2: 497-507). [Featured in over 90 news stories, including Nature Research Highlights, Nature Review Materials Research Highlights, and Nature Review Genetics Highlights.]
Funding is in place for this position to begin immediately.

A postdoctoral fellowship position is available in the Lee Lab for a candidate with experience in the
following areas:
1. Molecular/cellular biology/rodent behaviors in any area OR
2. Neuroscience using rodent models

A postdoctoral fellowship trainee will be trained in the topics they are interested in related to ASD,
including:
1) Using gene editing techniques and participating in gene editing therapeutic development
2) Studying the effect of inflammation in ASD using mouse models
3) Studying neurodevelopmental deficits focused on primary cilia deficits

To apply, please send a curriculum vitae (CV), a brief (<2 page) statement of research interests (cover letter), and contact information for three references to Dr. Hye Young Lee at leeh6@uthscsa.edu. The review process will begin immediately.

Please find news about Lee lab at
Lee lab at UTHSCSA: https://physiology.uthscsa.edu/team-member/hye-young-lee-ph-d/
Lee lab webpage: https://www.hyeyoungleelab.org/news
All postdoctoral appointments are designated as security sensitive positions.
The UT Health San Antonio is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, including protected veterans and persons with disabilities.