The project

Functional genomics and single cell assays to elucidate cardiopharyngeal gene networks

We are seeking a postdoctoral associate to study the regulatory mechanisms governing cell fate choices in the cardiopharyngeal lineage, by combining CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutagenesis, multiplexed single cell genomics assays and computational modeling of gene regulatory networks.
The work will use the tunicate Ciona as a powerful model system to study the cellular and molecular bases of cardiopharyngeal development with unprecedented spatio-temporal resolution, and at genome-scale. Specifically, the gene expression dynamics underlying multipotency, asymmetric divisions, early fate specification and commitment can be followed and mapped onto fixed lineages with single cell resolution. The work will entail a broad range of experimental and computational techniques including molecular cloning, ascidian embryology and transgenesis, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome engineering, quantitative confocal microscopy, and single cell genomics (scRNA-seq, with expansion to scATAC-seq and scCUT&TAG).
The project is funded by NIH/NICHD award R01 HD096770. The primary location is the Christiaen lab in the Department of Biology, at New York University, which is an outstanding environment for research and academic training. There will be possibilities to travel and perform work in the main lab location at the Sars international Center for Marine Molecular Biology, at the University of Bergen (Norway), where complementary research facilities are available.

We are seeking candidates with an excellent track-record (as attested by peer-reviewed publications, and letters from former advisors), outstanding work ethics, proficiency in several of the basic techniques necessary for the project (molecular cloning, confocal microscopy, R and/or Python programming) and a strong ability to learn new methods (e.g. ascidian embryology and transgenesis). Experience with single cell genomics and/or chromatin biology is preferred but not required. Finally, the successful candidate will be expected to apply for external funding for which he/she qualifies, and supported to that end.