Job Description

Postdoctoral Associate

Chesler Lab

Bar Harbor, ME

A postdoctoral associate position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Elissa Chesler at The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine to utilize systems genetics approaches to identify heritable effectors of behavior. The Chesler lab uses quantitative genetics, bioinformatics and behavioral science to understand and identify the biological basis for the relationships among behavioral traits with an emphasis on alcohol and substance use related traits. We develop and apply cross-species genomic data integration, advanced computing methods, and novel high-precision, high-diversity mouse populations to find genes associated with a constellation of behavioral disorders and other complex traits. In addition, Dr. Chesler leads the recently formed NIDA Research Center of Excellence P50 to bring together behavioral genetics experts from around the country to form the Center for Systems Neurogenetics of Addiction. Overall, the tools, techniques, and collaborations enable us to relate mouse behavior to specific aspects of human disorders, to test the validity of behavioral classification schemes, and to find genes and genetic variants that influence behavior. 

The Jackson Laboratory (JAX) offers a unique research and training environment characterized by multidisciplinary scientific collaboration, unparalleled mouse resources, outstanding core services, and is located adjacent to Acadia National Park in coastal Bar Harbor, Maine. Translational research collaborations in genomics-based, personalized medicine are fostered through our new JAX Genomic Medicine campus in Farmington, CT. In addition to lab-based training, JAX has developed a unique program for trainees to expand their professional skills in science communication, entrepreneurship, teaching, mentoring and laboratory management to best prepare postdocs for future career opportunities.

Associate must be able to plan, execute and analyze an independent research project, as well as exceptional verbal and written communication skills. Preference will be given to self-motivated and career oriented individuals.

Qualifications: 

• PhD (or nearing completion of PhD degree) in Neuroscience, Genetics, Genomics, Computational Biology, Neurobiology, and/or Biological Psychology.
• Strong addiction behavior/biology background or related domain expertise
• Track record of productivity supported by accepted or in press first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Foundational genetics, genomics, computational biology and/or neuroscientific backgrounds (i.e., some capabilities in mentor’s lab in addition to the addiction background so that they may readily grasp new technologies and their applications to addiction research). 
• Required experience with analysis and design of experiments and basic computational analysis of genetic, genomic and behavioral data using R or other statistical language.
• Outstanding writing and communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and within a collaborative, value-driven, and team-based environment 

JAX Salary  
Year 0 - 1     $65,589  
Year 1 - 2     $67,318  
Year 2 - 3     $69,095  
Year 3 - 4     $70,521  
Year 4 - 5     $72,877  
Year 5 - 6     $75,569  

How to apply: Interested and qualified individuals are encouraged to submit a cover letter, current CV, a 1-page Statement of Research Interests and Career Goals, and contact information for three references.

Candidates will be encouraged to apply for competitive foundation and federal training fellowships and awards. Postdoctoral associates will complete their training in genomics, genetics and addiction behavior/biology, yielding combined expertise and a diversified skill set that will, in turn, position them to compete successfully for funding opportunities, and increase their marketability for future faculty or industry research positions.

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About JAX:

The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution with a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center and nearly 3,000 employees in locations across the United States (Maine, Connecticut, California), Japan and China. Its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health.

Founded in 1929, JAX applies over nine decades of expertise in genetics to increase understanding of human disease, advancing treatments and cures for cancer, neurological and immune disorders, diabetes, aging and heart disease. It models and interprets genomic complexity, integrates basic research with clinical application, educates current and future scientists, and provides critical data, tools and services to the global biomedical community. For more information, please visit www.jax.org​​​​​​​.

EEO Statement:

The Jackson Laboratory provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.