Assistant Professor of Medical Sciences

Columbia University Irving Medical Center

Division of Preventive Medicine

Assistant Professor of Medical Sciences (in Medicine) at the Columbia University Medical Center

The Zeltser lab is looking for a motivated scientist to join their team as an Assistant Professor of Medical Sciences in Medicine at the Columbia University Medical Center (non-tenure track). The lab studies how the sympathetic nervous system regulates metabolism and how this is impacted by obesity and aging. We utilize a variety of genetically engineered mouse models, virus-based neural tracing and chemogenetic approaches, single nuclear transcriptomics, and in vivo physiological and metabolic measurements. The ultimate goal is to identify neural circuits that regulate distinct aspects of brown fat and function and systemic metabolism.

The ideal applicant will be an experienced researcher with expertise in both neuroanatomy and the neurobiology of autonomic regulation of peripheral targets and/or central regulation of metabolic parameters. The procedures for this project require expertise in multiple advanced techniques. The experienced researcher must be able to master state-of-the-art techniques to map and manipulate sympathetic circuits regulating discrete targets in the periphery, including stereotaxic injections, viral tracing, chemogenetics and fiber photometry. In parallel, this project also involves the analysis of physiological phenotypes in vivo, including thermogenesis, glucose uptake and lipolysis. Experience with surgical techniques in mice is essential.

The applicant will be expected to lead projects independently and to train and mentor others. The applicant is also expected to make substantive contributions to the formulation and writing of manuscripts and grant applications. Interest in developing new technologies is a plus.

Responsibilities:

• Perform daily lab activities to carry out research projects in the lab.
• Perform basic neuroanatomical assays including mounting and immunohistochemical staining in sections, clearing and immunostaining in intact brains, and imaging using confocal and light sheet microscopy.
• Perform physiological and metabolic assays in mice.
• Perform surgeries in mice to inject compounds and to implant devices in the brain and the periphery.
• Train and mentor others.
• Contribute to the formulation of grant applications, primary research papers and review articles.

Minimum Qualifications:

Applicants should have a PhD, MD or MD/PhD in Cellular Biology with at least 5 years of postdoctoral experience. Excellent oral and written communication skills, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work independently are essential. Well-versed with molecular biology and basic techniques to measure mRNA and protein. Proficient at performing complicated experiments in a timely manner. Ability to work independently and collaboratively. Willingness to work with mice. Technical accuracy, reliability, and attention to the details of procedural protocols, organizational skills, adherence to safety guidelines and the ability to work in a team. Excellent organizational skills and a strong interest in biological sciences.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in leading a group is preferred. Experience in mouse handling and colony maintenance highly preferred. Experience in basic histological procedures (i.e. immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization) is preferred but not essential. Experience in mouse surgical procedures is preferred. Experience with R is preferred but not essential.

Hiring Salary Range: $125,000 - $135,000 Annual

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Applications will be accepted online at:

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran