Sanford Health·Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Lead in vivo studies using Cilia-BioID2 mouse models to investigate the role of primary cilia in brain development and neurological disease. Develop molecular and neuroanatomical assays, analyze proteomic datasets, and mentor students within the Loukil Lab.
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland.
8 Hours - Day Shifts (United States of America)
Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40
Department Details: Unravel How Primary Cilia Shape Brain Circuits and Drive Neurological Disease
The Loukil Lab at Sanford Research Institute seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher in Neuroscience 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. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. Less than two years of postdoctoral experience is preferred.
The first comprehensive in vivo proteomic atlas of mature neuronal cilia, uncovering novel Eph/Ephrin and GABAergic signaling pathways (Loukil et al., 2025, J. Neurosci.)
A unique Cilia-BioID2 conditional mouse model engineered for in vivo proximity labeling of ciliary signaling proteins across the brain and peripheral organ
A defined CSNK2A1–TTBK2 kinase network that governs ciliary trafficking and stability, providing mechanistic insight into Okur-Chung neurodevelopmental syndrome pathways (Loukil et al., 2021, PNAS)
Visit www.Loukil-Lab.com for lab highlights.
Applications are reviewed upon receipt, with early submissions strongly encouraged.
Sanford Research Institute and the Loukil Lab welcome qualified candidates who share our commitment to advancing cilia neuroscience and making transformative discoveries that improve human health.
Summary Join a team combining molecular neuroscience, mouse genetics, and advanced imaging to pioneer discoveries at the underexplored cilia–brain interface. Primary cilia are sensory organelles that detect extracellular signals and transduce major pathways—such as sonic hedgehog—to regulate embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. Mutations in ciliary genes cause “ciliopathies,” often marked by cognitive impairment, motor dysfunction, and brain malformations, and emerging evidence implicates ciliary defects in broader neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.
Although compelling evidence connects ciliary signaling to neural function, the precise roles of primary cilia in the healthy brain remain elusive, and the molecular mechanisms by which ciliary dysfunction leads to neurological disease are still unknown.
Access to state-of-the-art core facilities at Sanford Research Institute
Professional development opportunities, including personalized grant-writing mentorship, leadership workshops, and tailored career counseling
A collaborative, supportive culture that fosters teamwork and innovation
Live and dine in Sioux Falls’ welcoming community: explore a thriving farm-to-table, enjoy friendly neighborhood cafés and bakeries, and join free outdoor summer concerts—all just minutes from the lab
Easy travel via Sioux Falls Regional Airport, offering daily flights to major hubs and seamless connections for national and international travel
Requires a doctorate degree in a clinical, health, or life science field.
Management experience is highly recommended. Selected from national applicant pool or known to be nationally competitive.
Sanford is an EEO/AA Employer M/F/Disability/Vet.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request an accommodation for help with your online application, please call 1-877-949-5678 or send an email to talent@sanfordhealth.org.
Requires a Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Developmental Biology, Cell Biology, or a related life science field. Preference is given to candidates with two years or less of postdoctoral experience and expertise in mouse genetics and advanced imaging.
Market context
In South Dakota, postdoctoral neuroscience roles are typically driven by university, medical research, and lab-based hiring needs, with candidates often competing for positions tied to specific projects and core facilities. These roles are competitive because employers look for a strong Ph.D. background, limited postdoctoral experience, and hands-on skills such as mouse genetics and advanced imaging. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then tailor your application to the exact techniques named in the posting.