Associate Researcher I-Psychiatry Dr. Kaji

Job DescriptionThe laboratory studies human brain development and neuropsychiatric disease using stem cell-derived organoids and primary fetal tissue. Current projects focus on:Defining how radial glia give rise to hippocampal and neocortical lineages, and identifying signaling pathways (e.g., Wnt and beyond) that govern hippocampal subfield specificationBuilding and characterizing human hippocampal organoid systems, including efforts to engineer missing subfields (e.g., CA1/CA3/DG)Identifying conserved molecular and cellular programs across genetic and pharmacologic models of schizophrenia using large-scale single-cell and multiomic datasetsModeling neurodevelopmental contributions to schizophrenia through perturbation systems, including chronic and acute NMDA receptor inhibition (e.g., ketamine exposure)Generating samples for large-scale single-cell and multiomic analysesThe long-term goal is to establish a reproducible, high-throughput human organoid platform that enables mechanistic dissection of brain development and convergent disease biology.ResponsibilitiesThis position will support the development and execution of stem cell-based experimental workflows under the guidance of senior laboratory personnel. Responsibilities include:Maintenance of human pluripotent stem cell cultures (hiPSCs/hESCs)Generation and routine maintenance of 3D brain organoids (neocortical and hippocampal)Execution of established differentiation protocols and assistance with optimization of culture conditionsImplementation of signaling perturbation experiments (e.g., small molecules, growth factors)Processing of organoid and tissue samples for downstream applications, including: single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq)single-nucleus ATAC sequencing (snATAC-seq)multiomic and spatial assays (sample preparation)Organoid characterization using: immunohistochemistrybasic microscopy and imagingMaintenance of accurate laboratory records and adherence to established protocols and SOPsGeneral laboratory responsibilities, including reagent preparation, inventory management, and equipment maintenanceCollaboration with senior lab members and computational scientists to support ongoing projectsQualificationsB.S. or B.A. in a STEM-related field Prior experience in a laboratory setting (academic or industry)Basic knowledge of molecular biology and cell culture techniquesStrong organizational skills and attention to detailAbility to follow protocols carefully and maintain detailed recordsWillingness to learn stem cell and organoid methodologiesInterest in neuroscience, development, or disease modelingPreferred experience RequiredExperience with tissue culture and/or molecular biology techniquesFamiliarity with sterile technique and basic lab practicesExperience with microscopy and basic imaging preferredPrior experience with stem cells or organoids is preferred but not requiredExposure to sequencing workflows or genomics is a plus but not requiredAbout UsStrength through Unity and InclusionThe Mount Sinai Health System is committed to fostering an environment where everyone can contribute to excellence. We share a common dedication to delivering outstanding patient care. When you join us, you become part of Mount Sinai's unparalleled legacy of achievement, education, and innovation as we work together to transform healthcare. We encourage all team members to actively participate in creating a culture that ensures fair access to opportunities, promotes inclusive practices, and supports the success of every individual.At Mount Sinai, our leaders are committed to fostering a workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to grow. We strive to create an environment where collaboration, fairness, and continuous learning drive positive change, improving the well-being of our staff, patients, and organization. Our leaders are expected to challenge outdated practices, promote a culture of respect, and work toward meaningful improvements that enhance patient care and workplace experiences. We are dedicated to building a supportive and welcoming environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and advance professionally. Explore this opportunity and be part of the next chapter in our history.About the Mount Sinai Health System:Mount Sinai Health System is one of the largest academic medical systems in the New York metro area, with more than 48,000 employees working across eight hospitals, more than 400 outpatient practices, more than 300 labs, a school of nursing, and a leading school of medicine and graduate education. Mount Sinai advances health for all people, everywhere, by taking on the most complex health care challenges of our time - discovering and applying new scientific learning and knowledge; developing safer, more effective treatments; educating the next generation of medical leaders and innovators; and supporting local communities by delivering high-quality care to all who need it. Through the integration of its hospitals, labs, and schools, Mount Sinai offers comprehensive health care solutions from birth through geriatrics, leveraging innovative approaches such as artificial intelligence and informatics while keeping patients' medical and emotional needs at the center of all treatment. The Health System includes more than 9,000 primary and specialty care physicians; 13 joint-venture outpatient surgery centers throughout the five boroughs of New York City, Westchester, Long Island, and Florida; and more than 30 affiliated community health centers. We are consistently ranked by U.S. News & World Report's Best Hospitals, receiving high "Honor Roll" status, and are highly ranked: No. 1 in Geriatrics, top 5 in Cardiology/Heart Surgery, and top 20 in Diabetes/Endocrinology, Gastroenterology/GI Surgery, Neurology/Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, Pulmonology/Lung Surgery, Rehabilitation, and Urology. 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