DESCRIPTION

Under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI), incumbent will perform independent research as an Electrophysiologist for a Neurosciences laboratory focusing on experiments using rodent models of Parkinson Disease and Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Experiments will involve preparing acute brain slices from aged mice and intracellular and extracellular recordings in the prepared slices using different combinations of stimulating and recording electrodes. Responsibilities will include experimental design and troubleshooting. Incumbent will select specific methods to achieve the objectives and contribute original ideas of major methodological significance to the investigation preceding both the references to the general body of scientific knowledge and by application of trial and error methods. Other experiments might involve molecular biology, fluorescence imaging and immunohistochemistry.

Incumbent will independently design and execute experiments to further understand the biology and impact of astrocyte to neuron conversion and the expression and impact on neurons of expression of PTBP1 and PTBP2 in order to meet existing grant objectives/milestones and other funding objectives that support Alzheimer's disease in order to meet existing grant objectives/milestones and other funding objectives that support Parkinson and Alzheimer's disease research. Incumbent will manage and coordinate research efforts with other collaborators as appropriate for multidisciplinary research. Will plan, execute and follow-up on high level regular and ad hoc meetings of investigators and management.

Incumbent will independently conceive, plan, and conduct research projects based on reviews of scientific literature and recent advances in related fields, organizing and executing all techniques involved. Will contribute novel ideas of major methodological significance to the research projects, designing key experiments and developing new techniques. Incumbent will author or co-author scientific journal manuscripts and book chapters. Will assist in reports to funding agencies. Additional responsibilities to include preparation and implementation of research study budgets based on analysis of data, direct and advise the work of technicians, students, and post-doctoral fellows to enable them to successfully participate in laboratory projects, and perform other duties as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Extensive theoretical knowledge in neurosciences, and five (5+) or more years of experience in brain slice electrophysiology, or equivalent combination of education and experience that includes PhD and Post-Doctoral experience.

• Proven ability to perform independent scientific inquiry and to provide significant independent contribution, original ideas and implement innovative ideas/techniques on complex and multi-disciplinary research projects.

• Highly trained in electrophysiology and acute brain slice preparation in rodents.

• Advanced technical competence in a wide variety of data processing and analysis techniques.

• Able to set up and use a new electrophysiological instrumentation.

• Proven experience in electrophysiological techniques including intracellular whole-cell patch-clamp recordings in cortical and hippocampal slices in rodents.

• Demonstrated ability to independently contribute to experimental design, analysis and interpretation of results.

• Extensive experience in analysis of synaptic plasticity experiments.

• Demonstrated ability in troubleshooting of electrophysiology equipment and methods. Might include small device design and implementation.

• Working knowledge of standard research animal-use protocols.

• Ability to make independent decisions, analyze situations, solve problems, and initiate actions for effective research. Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to identify problems and develop innovative solutions

• Proven skill in technical writing and demonstrated ability to write and/ or assist with writing of manuscripts forpublication. Ability to read, comprehend and discuss research materials.

• Advanced skills in electrophysiological acquisition and analysis software pClamp/Clampfi, Igor and MiniAnalyis.

• Excellent interpersonal skills including tact, diplomacy and flexibility with the ability to work well independently or in a team framework in conjunction with principles of community with staff, faculty, researchers, and other lab personnel.

• Detail oriented, highly efficient, productive, and collaborative with mentoring skills.

• Proven knowledge of basic lab safety requirements/procedures; EH&S regulations and methods for handling, clean-up, and waste disposal for biohazardous materials.

• Strong computer skills using MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, statview on Apple and PC, email system, and a variety of web-based programs. Ability to create and maintain databases and learn new programs and applications with minimal direction. Commitment to update/maintain technology skills with relevant computer software.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in studies of disease biology.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
• Must be willing to work with biohazardous materials.
• Must be willing to work with rodents.
• Must be willing to work flexible schedule in order to complete experiments as necessary.