Neurobiological and Pharmacological Mechanisms of Novel, Rapid-Acting Antidepressant Drugs

Position Description:

The NIMH Experimental Therapeutics Branch in collaboration with the Gould Laboratory at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore is currently seeking a highly-motivated postdoctoral fellow to lead a multidisciplinary research project investigating the neurobiological and pharmacological mechanisms of novel, rapid-acting antidepressant drugs, such as ketamine. In particular, we will utilize translational approaches including quantitative EEG, MEG, and in vivo electrophysiology to map circuits involved the rapid antidepressant actions of ketamine.

A multidisciplinary research approach will be used (see www.gouldlab.org and https://www.nimh.nih.gov/labs-at-nimh/research-areas/clinics-and-labs/etpb/index.shtml). To do this, we combine classic pharmacological, molecular, genetic, electrophysiological, and behavioral approaches with cutting-edge neuroscience techniques, potentially including chemogenetics, optogenetics, fiber photometry, measurement of local field potentials and single unit recordings.

Responsibilities:

The Fellow will have a lead role in the design and execution of projects, as well as publishing and presenting their results with anticipation of a future independent research career.

Qualifications:

Competitive candidates will have some experience in, or strong desire to learn these techniques, with strong written and communication skills. Candidates should have a PhD in neuroscience, pharmacology, or related disciplines. Salary is commensurate with experience. 

To Apply:

Interested applicants  should send a CV, statement of research interests and the names of 2-3 references to  Dr. Todd Gould, Departments of Psychiatry, Pharmacology, and Anatomy and Neurobiology, at the University Maryland School of Medicine, via e-mail: gouldlabme.com or Carlos A. Zarate, Jr., M.D. at the National Institute of Mental Health, via email: zaratecmail.nih.gov.