Postdoctoral Scholar, Physiology and Cell Biology

University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine; Reno (NV); On-site; USD 56,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

The Dr. Sal Baker Laboratory at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our multidisciplinary team studying the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate gastrointestinal motility.

The focus is on the pacemaker system of the GI tract, Ca2+ signaling in interstitial cells of Cajal, and regulatory roles of enteric neurons and hormonal control.

Qualifications

• We require a PhD in a related discipline with a strong publication record.
• Experience in Ca2+ imaging, electrophysiology, GI physiology, or neuroscience is preferred.
• Completion of a doctoral degree within the five years preceding appointment is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research projects within the Baker Lab, collaborating with an interdisciplinary team.
• Develop and apply advanced imaging, electrophysiology, and molecular approaches to study GI pacemaker biology.

Skills

Ca2+ imaging

Electrophysiology

Gastrointestinal physiology

Neuroscience

Molecular biology

Mouse models

Image analysis

Education

PhD in Physiology, Neuroscience, Cell Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Pharmacology or related

Job description

The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) appreciates your interest in employment at our growing institution. We want your application process to go smoothly and quickly. Final applications must be submitted prior to the close of the recruitment.

If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please contact our recruitment helpline at [phone] or [e-mail]. For UNR Med professional job postings, please contact the Office of Professional Recruitment at [phone].

Job Description

The Dr. Sal Baker Laboratory at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our multidisciplinary research team investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate gastrointestinal (GI) motility. Our research focuses on the pacemaker system of the gastrointestinal tract, with particular emphasis on Ca²⁺ signaling in interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) and the mechanisms by which enteric neurons and gastrointestinal hormones regulate pacemaker activity, mechanotransduction, and smooth muscle function. We employ state‑of‑the‑art approaches, including advanced optical imaging, genetically encoded Ca²⁺ indicators, electrophysiology, molecular biology, optogenetics/chemogenetics, and transgenic mouse models to understand how cellular signaling networks coordinate normal gut motility and contribute to gastrointestinal disorders. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to lead independent research projects while collaborating with an interdisciplinary team of physiologists, neuroscientists, and imaging specialists.

Required Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Physiology, Neuroscience, Cell Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Pharmacology, or a related discipline.
• A strong publication record in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Experience in one or more of the following:
  • Ca²⁺ imaging or fluorescence microscopy
  • Electrophysiology
  • Gastrointestinal physiology
  • Neuroscience
  • Molecular and cellular biology
  • Mouse models
  • Image analysis and quantitative data analysis
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Completion of a doctoral degree in the appropriate discipline is required.
• The doctoral degree must have been completed within the five years immediately preceding the first date of appointment as a postdoctoral fellow at the University.
• The individual cannot have held previous positions in the professional ranks.

Preferred Qualifications

We welcome applicants who are enthusiastic about advancing our understanding of gastrointestinal pacemaker biology and developing innovative approaches to study calcium signaling, neuronal regulation, and hormonal control of gut function.

Compensation Grade

Postdoctoral Scholar

The budgeted salary for this position is $62,232. To view the salary schedule for this position, please visit: Salary Schedules. Salary is competitive and commensurate with related education and experience.

Department Information

Researching smooth muscle physiology and motor neurotransmission from peripheral nerves, with a focus on gastrointestinal (GI) and bladder muscle function. The research examines the role of interstitial pacemaker cells in generating and regulating motility, as well as the mechanisms underlying calcium signaling, ion channels, mechanotransduction, neuroeffector pathways, and cell‑to‑cell communication. A primary emphasis is placed on understanding diseases and disorders such as overactive bladder, incontinence, irritable bowel syndrome, gastroparesis, and constipation.

https://med.unr.edu/directory/research-labs/baker-lab

Exempt

Yes

Full‑Time Equivalent

100.0%

Required Attachment(s)

Please note, once you submit your application the only attachment/s viewable to you will be the attachment/s to the resume/CV section of the application. Any additional required attachment/s to the cover letter, references, additional documents sections of the application, will not be viewable to you after you submit your application. All uploaded attachment/s will be on the application for the committee to review. To request updates to attachments, prior to the committee review of applications, please contact the candidate helpdesk at [e-mail]

Attach the following attachments to your application

• Resume/Curriculum vitae
• A cover letter describing research interests and career goals
• Contact Information for Three Professional References
• Representative publications (optional)

Posting Close Date

Note to Applicant

A background check will be conducted on the candidate(s) selected for hire. HR will attempt to verify academic credentials upon receipt of hiring documents. If the academic credentials cannot be verified, HR will notify the faculty member that an official transcript of their highest degree must be submitted within thirty days of the faculty member’s first day of employment. References will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process. Applicants hired on a federal contract may be subject to E‑Verify. As part of the hiring process, applicants for positions in the Nevada System of Higher Education may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform job‑related tasks. For positions that require driving, evidence of a valid driver’s license will be required at the time of employment and as a condition of continued employment. Schedules are subject to change based on organizational needs.

University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine