The Shaw Lab is a dynamic group of graduate and undergrad students, technicians, and postdoctoral researchers with diverse scientific interests that overlap in our common goal of understanding the basic mechanisms and functions of sleep. See below for available opportunities.
The Shaw Lab welcomes rotation graduate students and undergraduates. Email Dr. Shaw if you are interested: shawp@wustl.edu.
Washington University School of Medicine is a collaborative, inclusive institution that consistently ranks among the best in the US for neuroscience training. Researchers here have world-class resources at their fingertips, including a state-of-the-art cellular microscopy center, genomics core facilities, and, in 2023, a new, dedicated neuroscience research building that will be the new home of the Shaw Lab.
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Sleep regulation, plasticity & memory consolidation
A postdoctoral position is available immediately in the lab of Dr. Paul Shaw in the Neuroscience Department at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis to study the molecular and cellular bases for sleep regulation, plasticity and memory consolidation in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster.
Mentoring Statement: Commitment to Trainee Excellence and Development
I wholeheartedly affirm my unwavering commitment to the success and growth of each individual in my lab. I firmly believe that fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment is paramount to nurturing talented minds and preparing them for successful careers in academia.
My primary goal as a mentor is to provide exceptional training opportunities that empower and equip each trainee to achieve their goals. I recognize that mentorship extends beyond merely imparting knowledge and technical skills—it requires a holistic approach that encompasses personal and professional development, confidence-building, and exposure to the broader scientific community.
To ensure comprehensive and rigorous training, I prioritize providing my trainees with a myriad of opportunities. First and foremost, I strongly encourage and support their attendance at conferences, where they can showcase their work, gain exposure to diverse perspectives, and establish connections with fellow researchers. These experiences not only foster the dissemination of their findings but also serve as platforms for their growth as confident and effective communicators.
Recognizing the importance of effectively presenting data, I invest significant time in training my trainees on how to convey complex ideas clearly and concisely. Through workshops and one-on-one coaching, I assist them in developing the necessary skills to deliver compelling presentations that capture the attention of their audience. Such training not only enhances their ability to communicate their research but also instills in them the confidence to engage in scientific discussions and defend their ideas.
In addition to refining their presentation skills, I actively promote the adoption of cutting-edge techniques and methodologies within my lab. I believe that staying at the forefront of scientific innovation is crucial for the long-term success of my trainees. To that end, I encourage them to explore and embrace emerging technologies, providing them with the resources and guidance necessary to acquire expertise in these areas. This emphasis on cutting-edge techniques ensures that they remain competitive in their fields and opens doors to novel research opportunities.
Furthermore, I am dedicated to facilitating meaningful interactions between my trainees and senior investigators in the field. Through collaborations, mentorship networks, and invitations to seminars and symposiums, I expose them to diverse perspectives and provide them with access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise. These interactions not only broaden their horizons but also allow them to establish connections that can foster collaborations and open doors for future career prospects.
Above all, I am committed to creating a lab environment that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. I strive to foster a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, and open communication, where trainees feel comfortable and supported in their pursuit of scientific excellence. By fostering an inclusive and diverse lab community, I aim to create an environment where all trainees feel valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.
In conclusion, my overarching commitment as a mentor is to provide my trainees with every opportunity necessary for their success. Through conferences, training in data presentation, exposure to cutting-edge techniques, and interactions with senior investigators, I aim to foster an environment that promotes intellectual growth, professional development, and the acquisition of skills essential for thriving in the world of academia. Together, we will forge a path towards excellence, leaving a lasting impact on scientific research and the next generation of scientific leaders.