The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the "Trojan Family," which is comprised of the faculty, students and staff that make the university what it is.

The Keck School of Medicine Department of Physiology and Neuroscience of USC is seeking a candidate whose research is focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms by which neurodegenerative disease risk factors impact cellular physiology and modulating these pathways as potential therapeutic strategies for diseases like Alzheimer’s and others (ALS). Specifically, the individual would employ a suite of tools from protein structural techniques for neurodegeneration related-proteins to induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived models of neurological disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s) to genetic risk factors to develop therapeutic and preventative strategies.

Applicants for this tenure-track position at the level of assistant professor should be dedicated to developing an independent research program focused on studying genetic risk factors and stem-cells-derived models of human neurological disorders including Alzheimer’s disease, with a focus on the functions of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), BBB-associated astrocytes and/or microglia, and neurons, leading to development of new targets and treatment strategies for neurodegenerative diseases and Alzheimer’s.

The successful candidate is expected to: i) develop and maintain a robust extramurally funded research program in the fast-growing department of Physiology and Neuroscience and the state-of-the-art Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, and publish research manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals; ii) participate in medical and/or graduate student education, and advise undergraduate and graduate students; iii) participate in departmental governance and university service, and contribute to the highly collaborative and innovative environment within the scientific community at USC.

Degree and area of specialization

PhD and/or MD in biological or biomedical science, relevant postdoctoral experience (with a preference for three-to-five years of training), and outstanding research accomplishments in areas including, but not limited to neurobiology, cell biology, neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.       

The University of Southern California strongly values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity in employment.  Women and men, and members of all racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.