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WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL SCHOOL
Department of Developmental Biology
Postdoctoral Position
An NIH-funded position in cellular/molecular neurophysiology
is presently available to study (in collaboration with David
Ornitz, M.D., Ph.D.) the role of the intracellular fibroblast
growth factor 14, FGF14, in the regulation of neuronal excitability.
Previous studies have revealed that mice lacking FGF14 (Fgf14-/-mice)
are ataxic and that mutations in FGF14 in humans cause a progressive
spinocerebellar ataxia syndrome, SCA27. It has also been demonstrated
that FGF14 interacts with the C-terminal domains of voltage-gated
Na+ (Nav) channel pore-forming (α) subunits and modulates
the properties of functional Nav channels. In addition, immunohistochemical
studies have revealed that FGF14 co-localizes with Nav channel α subunits
at ankyrin G-rich axon initial segments in cerebellar Purkinje
cells and that Nav1.6 is reduced in the axon initial segments
of Fgf14-/-Purkinje neurons.
The goal of
future studies will be on testing the hypothesis that FGF14-Nav α subunit
interactions play critical roles in regulating the expression
and localization of Nav channels and in controlling the firing
(output) properties of Purkinje neurons. Additional studies
will explore the molecular mechanisms involved in mediating
the effects of FGF14 and SCA27-linked FGF14 mutations on the
expression, localization and functioning of Nav channels.
The available position presents an exceptional opportunity
for a recent Ph.D. with interests in combining molecular, biochemical,
electrophysiological and functional approaches to explore the
molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of neuronal
membrane excitability in a stimulating and highly interactive
environment. In addition, Washington University offers an outstanding
scientific and professional environment for postdoctoral training.
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. degree and have
a strong background in cellular electrophysiology, preferably
neurophysiology. Although previous experience in molecular
biology, biochemistry, cell biology and/or imaging is not required,
preference will be given to individuals with training and expertise
in one or more of these areas. Interested individuals should
send an application with curriculum vitae and three letters
of recommendation by email or regular mail to: Jeanne M. Nerbonne,
Ph.D., Alumni Endowed Professor of Molecular Biology and Pharmacology,
Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University
Medical School, 660 S. Euclid Ave., Box 8103, St. Louis,
MO 63110; jnerbonne@wustl.edu
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