Elizabeth Lucas
Hosting: Information Session
Department: Psychiatry & Behavioral Neurobiology
Description: Research in the Lucas Lab is driven by a passion to improve women's health across the lifespan. Compared to men, women exhibit increased susceptibility to stress-related psychiatric illnesses (i.e., post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorder, and major depressive) and Alzheimer's disease. Epidemiological data strongly implicate ovarian hormones as key drivers in these sex differences. We are recruiting a postdoctoral fellow to lead a federally-funded project that investigates how estradiol regulation of valence processing in the amygdala confers susceptibility and resilience to stress. This multidisciplinary project integrates whole-cell in vitro physiology, in vivo calcium imaging and optogenetics, pharmacology, genetics, and behavior. Preference will be given to candidates with expertise in (or a strong desire to gain expertise in) whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology. We offer a supportive environment and mentorship tailored to professional goals with opportunities for training in new research techniques, teaching and guest lecturing in courses, mentoring junior students, and honing manuscript and grant writing skills. Formal training programs are also offered through the Office of Postdoctoral Education and Comprehensive Neuroscience Center. Minimum compensation follows NIH scale, and relocation packages are available. UAB postdoctoral fellows are eligible for benefits, including retirement, and UAB recently launched the Brain-PRIME competitive neuroscience postdoc recruitment initiative.
Hobbies: Dr. Lucas loves being outdoors: hiking, biking, and wilderness backpacking.