Post Doctoral Fellow

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer: 

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match 
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us! 

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

BASIC FUNCTION:        

A full-time Postdoctoral position is immediately available in the Laboratory of Dr. Sayan Nandi, Howard University, Washington DC. The PI’s laboratory is focused on understanding the roles of microglial cells in brain development and injury. Microglia are the principal immune cells of the brain and constitute 10%-15% of total brain cells. They are bona fide phagocytes with well-defined roles in clearing dead cells and debris. Recent studies placed microglia in the landscape of sculpting and refining of neural circuits and in the modulation of behavior. Appropriately, they have been implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia. In addition, microglial activation is considered as a “double-edged sword” in neural injuries such as stroke outcome, with both beneficial and detrimental roles. While on one hand, microglial activation is required to clear dead neurons leading to the recovery process, it can also release proinflammatory cytokines worsening the injury. We will test the ideas of direct roles played by these cells using rodent models of schizophrenia and stroke. We will combine molecular, histological, imaging, physiological and behavioral approaches.

SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY:       

No supervisory duties.

NATURE AND SCOPE:   

Internal contacts include assistant/associate deans, directors, department heads/chairs, faculty, staff and students at the College and school levels, and deans, directors, and executive level officers at university level. External contacts include governmental agencies such as Federal and the District of Columbia Agencies, health professionals, students, parents, and the general public. Fulfill tasks in collaborative team of students and researchers from Howard University.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:     

• The candidate is expected to have training in microscopy and rodent behavior. Experience in electrophysiology techniques will be a plus
• The candidate is also expected to work collaboratively with the faculty in the Department of Anatomy as well as outside the Department, as required.

• The candidate should be able to effectively communicate with the PI.
• This position requires in-depth understanding of brain functions and scientific literature,
• extensive data analyses and interpretation as well as skills required for scientific presentation.
• The candidate is expected to be involved in the training of incoming students and postdoctoral fellows in the PI’s laboratory.
• Participates in academic, didactic, and professional training provided through seminars, workshops, and direct meetings with grant faculty.
• Manages their own project, which is expected to yield one or more publications including conference abstract proceedings.
• Mentors doctoral, master’s and undergraduate students engaged in independent research activities.
• Develops proficiency in career skills, including writing, public speaking, networking, and critical evaluation of scientific literature.
• Presents scientific work both inside and outside th