Postdoctoral Position in Epilepsy Neurobiology (Neuroscience, Neurogenetics, Electrophysiology)

A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratories of Dr. Sattar Khoshkhoo (Brigham and Women's Hospital/Harvard Medical School) and Dr. Jordan Farrell (Boston Children's Hospital/Harvard Medical School) to study the mechanisms of somatic mosaicism in focal epilepsy using both mouse and human model systems. The research focuses on understanding Ras-MAPK mutations in pediatric and adult focal epilepsies, employing advanced genomic techniques such as single-cell and spatial multiomic evaluation, iPSC-derived neural cultures, and mouse models. The Farrell Lab investigates brain network dynamics, particularly how hippocampal oscillations are altered in epilepsy and other neurological diseases, using in vivo mouse models and ex vivo human tissue culture with electrophysiology, functional imaging, and targeted cell type-specific modulation. The postdoc will work at the intersection of both labs’ expertise, with research directions including: mechanisms of hippocampal Ras-MAPK somatic mosaicism and their synergy with acquired insults in epileptogenesis; pathologic sequelae of Ras-MAPK overactivation in neurons and neural circuits, and precision therapy approaches targeting Ras-MAPK signaling; and the role of dentate gyrus neurogenesis in the emergence of hippocampal network hyperexcitability and epilepsy. Relevant publications include Farrell et al. Science 2021, Khoshkhoo et al. JAMA Neurology 2023, Farrell et al. Nature 2024, Bizzotto et al. PNAS 2025, and Khoshkhoo et al. bioRxiv 2026. Applicants should have a PhD and/or MD in neuroscience, bioengineering, neurogenetics, or related fields, with expertise in neuronal electrophysiology and/or functional imaging, experience with neural model systems (iPSC-derived neuronal cultures, animal models, or cultured brain slices), and proficiency in molecular biology and genetics techniques. Strong quantitative/analytical skills, programming experience (MATLAB, Python, or R), a record of first-author original research papers, and strong communication skills are required. The position offers a minimum annual salary of $70,000, adjustable based on experience. The labs are located in the Longwood Medical Area of Boston, adjacent to the Harvard Medical School campus, providing opportunities for collaboration with leading institutions such as Harvard, MIT, and the Broad Institute. The institutions are committed to equity, diversity, and fostering a workforce representing a broad spectrum of backgrounds and perspectives. To apply, send a cover letter describing your research interests, your CV, and contact information for three references to [email protected] and [email protected]. For more information, visit the lab websites at Khoshkhoo Lab and Farrell Lab . The application deadline is April 18, 2026.