Job description

Applications are invited for a 3 year position as Postdoctoral Fellow in neuroscience and epilepsy to be based at the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences (IMB), University of Oslo.

More about the position

The position is linked to Professor Farrukh A. Chaudhry’s group ( http://bit.ly/2oXLyL8) investigating amino acid transporters and metabolizing enzymes to elucidate their pathofunctional roles in neuronal signaling, neuronal development and in neuropathology (See e.g. Qureshi et al., Cereb Cortex, 2019; Moen et al., Brain, 2016; Hamdani et al., Glia, 2012; Nissen-Meyer et al., J Neurosci, 2011). We use a multidisciplinary approach (including genetically modified mice, two-electrode voltage-clamp and patch-clamp electrophysiology, ratiometric analyses, biochemical investigations, high-resolution imaging (transmission electron microscopy, Confocal laser scanning microscopy) and behavioral testing) to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved in their function and regulation, and translate these findings to clinics.

The current project involves functional characterization of novel proteins and their interacting partners with focus on neurotransmitter synthesis, synaptic plasticity and pathology. It involves generation of genetically modified mice and characterization of their phenotype. The candidate is also expected to identify and characterize novel disease-causing genes and pathogenesis mechanisms involved in epilepsy and other brain diseases.

The main purpose of the fellowship is to qualify researchers for work in higher academic positions within their disciplines.

Qualification requirements

• Applicants must hold a degree equivalent to a Norwegian PhD doctoral and a strong academic background.
• It requires strong experience in biochemistry and cell biology to study the secretory pathways and reveal protein modifications and interactions.
• It requires prior experience in molecular biology and generation of genetically modified mice and disease models.
• Candidates with prior experience in epilepsy will be prioritized.
• It requires motivation to contribute to a strong cooperation with other group members involved.
• Good knowledge of spoken and written English is required.

Personal skills

• Individual suitability for the project
• Good cooperation skills
• Good communication skills
• Other members of the research group should have benefit of the candidate’s expertise

• Highly motivated individuals holding a PhD or equivalent and who enjoys working in an international and interactive environment are welcome to apply

We offer

• A challenging and friendly working environment
• Salary NOK 523 200 - 583 900 per annum depending on qualifications in position as Postdoctoral Research Fellow (position code 1352)
• Favorable pension arrangements
• Attractive welfare benefits

A career development programme designed for researchers at the beginning of their career

http://www.med.uio.no/english/research/postdoctoral-programme/

How to apply

The application must include:

• Cover letter (statement of motivation, summarizing scientific work and research interest)
• CV (summarizing education, positions, pedagogical experience, administrative experience and other qualifying activities)
• Copies　of educational certificates (including classes attended and grades obtained).
• A complete list of publications
• Letters of recommendation
• Names and contact details of 3 references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and telephone number)

The application with attachments must be delivered in our electronic recruiting system. Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University's grading system. Please note that all documents should be in English (or a Scandinavian language).

In assessing the applications, special emphasis will be placed on the documented, academic qualifications as well as the candidates motivation and personal suitability. Interviews with the best qualified candidates will be arranged.

It is expected that the successful candidate will be able to complete the project in the course of the period of employment

Formal regulations

Please see the guidelines and regulations for appointments to Postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Oslo.

No one can be appointed for more than one Postdoctoral Fellow period at the University of Oslo.

According to the Norwegian Freedom of Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.

The University of Oslo has an agreement for all employees, aiming to secure rights to research results etc.

The University of Oslo aims to achieve a balanced gender composition in the workforce and to recruit people with ethnic minority backgrounds.

Contact information

• Professor Farrukh A. Chaudhry, f.a.chaudhry@medisin.uio.no

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