Postdoctoral positions are available in the laboratory of Morgan Carlson at the Center on Aging, University of Connecticut Health Center. The laboratory’s overall focus is to identify and understand cell signaling changes that occur through the aging process, to investigate their impact on muscle stem cell behavior and to evaluate their potential as therapeutic targets in human disease. The ideal candidate should have a Ph.D. and/or M.D. degree, a strong background in molecular/cellular experimental systems and possess a special interest in regenerative medicine and the biology of aging. Prior experience with muscle stem cells, embryonic stem cells and animal models is a plus.

Interested applicants should submit their current curriculum vitae, contact information for three references and brief statement of research background and interests by email to:

mcarlson(a)uchc.edu,

Morgan Carlson, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Center on Aging/Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center.

The regulation of the intracellular organization of skeletal muscle is poorly understood. We study rare and severe neuromuscular disorders caused by mutations in proteins affecting organelles and membrane trafficking. Our team has identified the myotubularin family of phosphoinositide phosphatases mutated in several neuromuscular disorders including myopathies and peripheral neuropathies, and has recently involved the amphiphysin-dynamin complex in similar diseases. While focusing on these genetic diseases, our approaches are multidisciplinary and encompass the identification of the implicated genes by next generation sequencing, the study of the molecular and cellular functions of these proteins in cells and in C. elegans, the validation of mammalian disease models, and the use of viral vectors (AAVs) for pathophysiology studies and preclinical therapeutic trials. In parallel, we study the function of these proteins in skeletal muscle through the development of imaging methods (correlative microscopy and in vivo imaging) in close contact with our institutional platforms.

The candidate will contribute to characterize the cellular roles of myotubularins, amphiphysin and dynamin on membrane and organelle trafficking in muscle cells and tissues, both under normal and pathological conditions. Candidates must be highly motivated and have a PhD in molecular or cellular biology. A background in cell biology will be an asset. French speaking is not a requirement.

Please send your application, curriculum vitae and 2-3 referees addresses by email to :

The general focus of the group centers on facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD). Current projects include analysis of the epigenetic mechanisms regulating the FSHD locus, functional studies on the FSHD mouse model and evaluation of possible therapeutic approaches. The laboratory is strategically located within the scientific environment of the San Raffaele Biomedical Area. There are ample opportunities to interact with other laboratories with interests in regulation of gene expression and disease. The Division of Regenerative Medicine has a strong emphasis on development of novel therapeutic approaches for muscular dystrophy.

Candidates with strong background in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry or bioinformatics are encouraged to apply. Expertise in mouse biology using both in vivo and in vitro approaches is highly desirable. Applicants should have demonstrated scientific productivity, good inter-personal and communication skills, and be able to conduct independent research.