Welcome to the Koleske Lab
Our long-term goal is to understand the molecular mechanisms by which growth factor and adhesion receptors regulate cell shape, structural stability, and movement. We have identified a set of adhesion and growth factor receptors, kinases, scaffolding proteins, and cytoskeletal modulators as key regulators of these processes. We strive to define the biochemical mechanisms by which extracellular cues direct this group of proteins to control cytoskeletal structure and dynamics and how this impacts cell structure, stability, and movement. We are applying the principles uncovered and strategies we have developed to understand how cancer cells escape the tumor and invade surrounding tissue and how fibroblasts migrate on adhesive substrates. In major new initiatives, we will discover how neuronal circuits maintain stability in the adolescent mouse brain, and work to understand how stress and psychostimulant abuse disrupt neuronal structure and connectivity. We hope to translate our discoveries into improved therapies to treat breast cancer, neurodevelopmental disorders, and neurodegenerative disease.
The Koleske lab at Yale University is seeking several Postdoctoral Associates to study cytoskeletal mechanisms that control excitatory synapse maturation and how they are affected in neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders.
Expertise is sought in several areas: protein biochemistry, single molecule biophysics, animal behavior and anatomy, and patch clamp electrophysiology
To be considered candidates should have:
• Ph.D. in neuroscience, biochemistry, biophysics, cell biology, genetics, developmental biology, or a related field
• One or more first author papers in peer-reviewed journals in their field
• Coding capabilities in Igor Pro, Matlab or Python
• Strong skills in oral and written communication and project management and demonstrated ability to work with others.
Applicants should send a cover letter indicating their experience and interest, together with a CV and names of references to anthony.koleske@yale.edu