Assistant Professor of Neurological Sciences (in Neurology and in the Taub Institute) at CUMC

Columbia University Irving Medical Center's Department of Neurology invites applications for a full-time, Assistant Professor to develop a, translational research program focused on molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration. We seek an investigator whose work centers on endolysosomal/endosomal trafficking, neuroinflammation, and therapeutic approaches (e.g., AAV-based gene therapy, small-molecule or peptide modulators). The successful candidate will hold a medical and/or research doctoral degree, will be expected to establish an externally funded laboratory, mentor trainees, and contribute to departmental teaching and collaborative translational initiatives at and outside CUIMC (strong interactions with the proteomics, transcriptomics imaging and iPSC/core facilities encouraged).

Responsibilities

Establish and lead an innovative research program investigating endolysosomal/endosomal dysfunction and neuron-glia interactions in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, FTD and related disorders.

Secure extramural funding (NIH, foundation, industry partnerships) to support a sustainable research program; prepare and submit competitive grant applications.

Design and oversee experiments using genetic mouse models, AAV and other gene-delivery platforms, iPSC-derived neuronal models, proteomics, and single-cell transcriptomics as appropriate.

Translate basic research findings toward therapeutic strategies (e.g., vector engineering, non-invasive delivery methods, small molecule/peptide modulators) and manage collaborations with translational/industry partners.

Publish high-quality manuscripts and present results at national/international meetings; participate in patenting and technology-translation activities where appropriate.

Mentor and supervise graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, research staff, and trainees; contribute to the Department's graduate and medical student teaching program and to recruitment/training efforts.

Collaborate across departments and centers (imaging, proteomics, immunology, iPSC cores) and engage in departmental service (committees, seminars, outreach).

MD, PhD, MD/PhD, or equivalent doctoral degree with postdoctoral research experience in neuroscience, cell biology, neurodegeneration, or a strongly related field.

Demonstrated research focus on endolysosomal/endosomal trafficking, retromer biology, neuroinflammation, or closely related mechanisms in neurodegenerative disease as evidenced by publications and project leadership.

Experience with gene-delivery approaches (AAV or other viral vectors) and molecular/genetic model systems (mouse models, iPSC models) or closely related technical expertise.

Track record of peer-reviewed publications in respected journals demonstrating independent productivity.

Preferred Qualifications

Competitive record of extramural funding or clear potential to obtain NIH/federal, foundation, or industry support (examples include roles on NIH/NIA grants, program projects, foundation awards).

Experience translating basic discoveries toward therapeutic strategies (gene therapy, vector engineering, small-molecule or peptide therapeutics) and prior industry or multi-disciplinary collaborations.

Patents or technology-transfer experience related to endolysosomal modulation, viral constructs, or related therapeutics.

Strong leadership in mentoring and demonstrated success training students and postdocs; enthusiasm for curriculum development and graduate/medical education.

Evidence of mentoring or supervision of trainees (students, postdocs, research staff etc.).

Ability and willingness to teach and participate in departmental service.

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Pay Transparency Disclosure

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.