Postdoctoral Scholar - Research Associate

Overview

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be part of a world-class research university and a member of the “Trojan Family,” which includes the faculty, staff, and students who make the university a great place to work.

The USC Dana and David Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar – Research Associate in the Neurobiology Department. The Liman Lab studies the molecular and cellular mechanisms of sensory transduction, focusing on proton-selective ion channels (OTOPs) and their roles in cellular physiology in taste and other systems. OTOP1 was described for its role in the vestibular system and has been reported by our group to form a proton channel and sour taste receptor.

The Liman lab has identified elements of gating, contributions of OTOP1 to ammonium salt taste, and has collaborated to publish the structure of OTOP1 and identify small molecule inhibitors. This work represents an ongoing research program with much still to learn.

Projects will involve dissecting ion channel function and contribution to physiology using a combination of patch-clamp electrophysiology, molecular biology, imaging, and in vivo models. Depending on interests and background, the fellow may lead work on:

• Structure–function analysis of OTOP family members and mechanisms of proton conduction and channel gating
• Contribution of OTOP channels to taste and other physiological processes using transgenic mouse models
• Discovery of modulators or inhibitors of proton channels

• PhD in Neuroscience, Physiology, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, or related field
• Strong foundation in electrophysiology (whole-cell, excised patch, or similar) or advanced molecular biology/transgenic mouse design and testing
• Experience with heterologous expression systems, primary cells, or mouse models is a plus
• Evidence of productivity (first-author publications, preprints)

• A supportive and data-driven research environment with opportunity to interact with the larger USC community
• Competitive NIH-scale salary with generous benefits and mentoring tailored toward academic or industry career paths
• A park-like campus located near the heart of Los Angeles, and within close proximity to beautiful beaches and snow-capped mountains

The position is grant funded. It is open now and will remain until filled.

Salary range: The salary for this position is $70,304.00. When extending an offer of employment, USC considers factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, and external market and organizational considerations.

Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

• Resume (with publications) and cover letter stating research interests and career goals required (may be uploaded as one file). Please do not submit your application without these documents.
• Fixed-term position.
• Job openings are posted for a minimum of five business days. This job may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended, so please apply on the same business day if interested.
• USC benefits include health benefits for staff and family with access to the university medical network; eligibility for retirement plans with employer contributions after six months of employment; tuition benefits for staff and family; free Professional Development classes; central Los Angeles location with access to commuter trains, buses, and free tram pick up services; discounts to sporting and other campus events.