Åsa Mackenzie

The Molecular Neuroanatomy research group at Lund University, led by Åsa Mackenzie, studies the brain regions and neural circuits involved in the motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The group combines anatomical, molecular and functional approaches, with a particular focus on the subthalamic nucleus, a key target for deep brain stimulation. This postdoctoral project is part of an international effort supported by the Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s Collaborative Research Network. The successful researcher will help investigate the organisation and function of brain circuits relevant to Parkinson’s disease through complementary human, non-human primate and mouse studies. The project brings together comparative molecular and anatomical mapping of the subthalamic region in human, mouse and macaque tissue with experimental work in mouse models. The laboratory work includes histological analysis, molecular mapping, microscopy, image analysis and spatial reconstruction, alongside optogenetic circuit manipulation, stereotactic interventions, viral vector delivery, fibre implantation, and behavioural analysis. The role is based at BMC, the Biomedical Centre in Lund, close to Skåne University Hospital. The research environment is described as collaborative and supportive, with emphasis on mutual respect, inclusion, and opportunities for professional development. The position offers the chance to contribute to manuscripts, presentations, and broader scientific collaboration while developing expertise in comparative molecular neuroanatomy and functional circuit analysis.