Indiana University

Title Assistant Research Professor of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology Specific Title Appointment Type Scientist Track Faculty Department IUSM - Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology Campus IU School of Medicine Indianapolis Position Summary

The Pierchala laboratory, a member of the Stark Neuroscience Research Institute (SNRI) at Indiana University School of Medicine, invites applications for a faculty position at the rank of Assistant Research Professor to develop a project that aims to identify mechanisms of cell fate specification of oral sensory neurons of the geniculate ganglion. Utilizing unbiased methods for the identification of genes enriched in oral sensory neurons, our gene candidate approach has identified numerous genes likely to be involved in the development of taste circuits, including a population of oral mechanosensory neurons. This position will further mine these genes using mouse genetic methods.

The laboratory is looking for investigators with expertise in molecular biology, biochemistry, single nuclei RNAseq, confocal imaging of immunolabeled tissues, and a detailed anatomic/surgical knowledge of craniofacial ganglia in mice. The successful candidate will join an already established team that includes senior and junior scientists as well as postdocs and Ph.D. students who will also be involved in this project.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Responsible for developing and fully executing a project dissecting the role axonally-localized transcripts in the synaptogenesis and peripheral circuit maintenance of geniculate ganglion neurons.
• Lead, develop, and troubleshoot specific analyses.
• Multi-task projects and keep pace in a dynamic research environment.
• Present research advances at a variety of internal and external seminars.
• Lead manuscript writing.
• Direct, coordinate and supervise laboratory personnel.
• Mentor students and research staff
  
  

IU School of Medicine is committed to being a welcoming campus community and we seek candidates whose research, teaching, and community engagement efforts contribute to robust learning and working environments for all students, staff, and faculty. We invite individuals who will join us in our mission to improve health equity and well-being for all throughout the state of Indiana."

Indianapolis is the capital and most populous city in the State of Indiana. It is growing economically thanks to a strong corporate base anchored by the life sciences. Indiana is home to one of the largest concentrations of health sciences companies in the nation. Indianapolis has a sophisticated blend of charm and culture with a wonderful balance of business and leisure. The growing residential base is supported by rich amenities and quality of life – the city possesses a variety of professional sports, arts venues and outdoor recreation areas. Residents of this dynamic city, and surrounding suburbs, enjoy leading educational systems and top-ranked universities, paired with a diverse population. Indianapolis International Airport is a top-ranked international airport, being named “Best Airport in North America” by Airports Council International for many years.

Information about the Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology is available at:

https://medicine.iu.edu/anatomy-cell-biology-physiology

Information about the Stark Neurosciences Research Institute is available at: https://medicine.iu.edu/research-centers/neurosciences

Information about the Indiana University School of Medicine is available at:

https://medicine.iu.edu

Basic Qualifications

Doctorate or terminal degree required. Must have a PhD or MD degree with 6 or more years of postdoctoral experience.

Department Contact for Questions

Dr. Brian Pierchala @brpierch@iu.edu

Additional Qualifications Special Instructions Priority Application Review Deadline Expected Start Date Posting Number IUSM-02416-2026