Current Opportunities at Vanderbilt

The Ayala lab is seeking a post-doctoral fellow interested in mechanisms regulating feeding behavior and body weight. Research in the lab focuses on mechanisms by which the incretin hormone Glucagon-like peptide-1 (Glp1) and pharmacological Glp1 receptor (Glp1r) agonists currently approved for treating obesity target the central nervous system to promote weight loss. We approach this using state-of-the-art techniques at the intersection of whole-body physiology, metabolism, and neuroscience applied to mouse models. Current project include investigations into: 

1. Molecular mechanisms targeted by therapeutic Glp1r agonists that promote weight loss.
2. Interactions between Glp1r agonists and Fibroblast Growth Factor-21 (FGF21) that regulate body weight under different dietary carbohydrate conditions.
3. Potential function of Glp1-producing brainstem neurons in the regulation of feeding behavior.
4. Role for endogenous Glp1 action in the central nervous system on the regulation of food intake in the setting of stress.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with expertise in metabolism and/or neuroscience and who is interested in highly translational research. The Ayala lab is a diverse group and Vanderbilt University is a highly collegial environment. Working in the lab provides ample opportunity for collaborating with multiple investigators.

Please send CV and three letters of reference to: julio.e.ayala@vanderbilt.edu