Postdoctoral Physiology Scholar (University of Nevada School of Medicine)

Our research integrates advanced imaging, vascular physiology, and neuroscience to understand microvascular dysfunction in neurological disorders, offering opportunities for scientific independence and professional development.

Prospective Postdoctoral Scholars will lead investigations into how light regulates vascular function within the choroid, a newly discovered mechanism that may control metabolic waste clearance from the retina in age-related macular degeneration. This fellow will be responsible for designing and performing experiments using a range of advanced physiological and imaging techniques. These approaches include ex vivo pressurized vascular and intact tissue preparations, high-resolution confocal and two-photon Ca2+ imaging, targeted photostimulation, pharmacological and molecular interrogation of cellular signaling pathways, controlled environmental exposure in animal models, and spatial transcriptomics.

Beyond experimental execution, this postdoctoral fellow will be involved in all aspects of our research processes, including formulating hypotheses, developing and refining protocols, conducting rigorous data collection and analysis, interpreting findings within the broader scientific context, and preparing manuscripts for publication. This fellow will be encouraged to develop independent research directions aligned with the lab’s core interests, pursue extramural funding, contribute to grant proposals, and gain leadership experience through the training and mentorship of graduate students, undergraduate students, and other research trainees within a supportive and collaborative research environment.

Prospective candidates must have a PhD, MD, or MD/PhD in Physiology, Vision Science, Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and/or a closely related field. Degrees must have been completed within the last five years. Demonstrated research experience in ocular biology, retinal or choroidal physiology, or related areas of vision research is also required.

Preferably, candidates will have experience in ocular vascular physiology, neurovascular signaling, or retinal and choroidal biology. Expertise in one or more experimental approaches, including ex vivo tissue preparations, vascular reactivity measurements, patch-clamp electrophysiology, advanced fluorescence imaging, or molecular biology is highly desirable. Strong scientific writing, communication, and analytical skills, as well as an interests in developing independent research, pursuing extramural funding, and mentoring junior trainees, are required.