Postdoctoral Fellow - Neuroscience at Sanford Health

Role Overview

Sanford Health is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join the Loukil Lab at the Sanford Research Institute. This position offers a unique opportunity to investigate the roles of primary cilia in brain development, function, and circuitry, and to elucidate how ciliary dysfunction drives pathogenic changes underlying neurological disease. The successful candidate will work in a dynamic and collaborative environment, utilizing cutting-edge techniques in molecular neuroscience, mouse genetics, and advanced imaging to make transformative discoveries at the cilia–brain interface.

Day in the Life

As a Postdoctoral Fellow in Neuroscience, your day-to-day activities will include:

• Designing and conducting in vivo studies using our Cilia-BioID2 mouse models and standard Cre-driver lines.
• Performing survival surgeries and advanced imaging experiments.
• Developing and optimizing molecular, biochemical, and neuroanatomical assays.
• Analyzing proteomic and imaging datasets using advanced bioinformatics tools.
• Drafting manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and presenting research findings at international meetings.
• Mentoring students and collaborating with other researchers across Sanford Research Institute.

Why Sioux Falls, South Dakota?

Sioux Falls offers a high quality of life with a low cost of living. The city boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, excellent schools, and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. Sanford Health is a major employer in the region, providing a stable and supportive work environment. Sioux Falls is also a growing hub for healthcare and research, making it an ideal location for career advancement.

Career Path

This Postdoctoral Fellow position provides a strong foundation for a successful career in academia or industry. Upon completion of the fellowship, you may pursue opportunities as a:

• Research Scientist
• Principal Investigator
• Faculty Member
• Industry Scientist

Sanford Health is committed to supporting your career development and providing opportunities for advancement within the organization.

Salary & Benefits

The estimated salary range for this Postdoctoral Fellow position is $55,000 - $75,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Comprehensive health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Life and disability insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement plan with employer matching
• Professional development opportunities

Sanford Culture

Sanford Health is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where all employees can thrive. We value teamwork, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. Our employees are passionate about making a difference in the lives of our patients and the communities we serve.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online through the Sanford Health careers website. Please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references.

FAQ

1. What is the focus of the Loukil Lab? The Loukil Lab pioneers cilia neuroscience through in vivo proteomic atlas of mature neuronal cilia, uncovering novel Eph/Ephrin and GABAergic signaling pathways, a unique Cilia-BioID2 conditional mouse model engineered for in vivo proximity labeling of ciliary signaling proteins across the brain and peripheral organ, and a defined CSNK2A1–TTBK2 kinase network that governs ciliary trafficking and stability, providing mechanistic insight into Okur-Chung neurodevelopmental syndrome pathways.
2. What skills are required for this position? Required skills include expertise in mouse genetics and in vivo modeling, proficiency with advanced imaging microscopy and functional imaging, and proficiency in molecular biology and neuroanatomical techniques.
3. What are the benefits of working at Sanford Health? Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan with employer matching.
4. What is the work environment like at Sanford Health? Sanford Health is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where all employees can thrive.
5. What career opportunities are available after completing the fellowship? Upon completion of the fellowship, you may pursue opportunities as a Research Scientist, Principal Investigator, Faculty Member, or Industry Scientist.
6. Is relocation assistance available? Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates. Please inquire during the interview process.
7. Are there opportunities for professional development? Yes, Sanford Health is committed to providing professional development opportunities for its employees.
8. What is the application process? Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online through the Sanford Health careers website. Please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references.
9. What are primary cilia and why are they important in neuroscience? Primary cilia are sensory organelles that detect extracellular signals and transduce major pathways to regulate embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. In neuroscience, they play a crucial role in brain development, function, and circuitry. Defects in ciliary function are implicated in various neurological disorders.
10. What is the Cilia-BioID2 mouse model used for? The Cilia-BioID2 conditional mouse model is engineered for in vivo proximity labeling of ciliary signaling proteins across the brain and peripheral organs, allowing researchers to identify and study the molecular mechanisms underlying ciliary function and dysfunction.