Post Doctoral Fellow

Position Summary

The Pocivavsek Lab in the Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to investigate the interplay between tryptophan metabolism via the kynurenine pathway, sleep, and cognition in rodents. Experimental work will encompass biochemistry (in vivo microdialysis and HPLC), pharmacology, and behavioral neuroscience (learning and memory in rodents, EEG/EMG sleep recordings).

• Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree in an area of research specialty required by the start date of employment.

• Experience/expertise in EEG/EMG sleep recordings, pharmacological approaches, and working with rodents in a laboratory setting desired.
• Strong knowledge of the hippocampus and the brain’s learning and memory circuitry preferred.
• Fundamental knowledge and research experience in neurochemistry, neuroanatomy, neuroendocrinology, neurophysiological assessments, receptors and pharmacological approaches, and working with rodents.
• Ability to work independently and in a team; analyze data, prepare manuscripts, and communicate effectively.
• Commitment to conduct business lawfully and ethically by adhering to compliance policies, procedures and regulations.

• Perform biochemical experiments (35% of time).
• Perform behavioral analysis and pharmacological manipulations in rodents (20% of time).
• Perform stereotaxic surgery or other surgical procedures and post‑surgical follow‑up (20% of time).
• Perform histological, neurochemical and molecular procedures on brain tissue and plasma (10% of time).
• Analyze and summarize data, prepare presentations and manuscripts, and conduct literature analysis on projects (10% of time).
• Supervise students in the lab and assist with lab duties such as dishes, compliance, ordering supplies, etc. (5% of time).

Research Grant or time‑limited positions may be eligible for health and life insurance, paid leave, and retirement programs based on grant or project funding. For more details, visit the Working at USC section on the Applicant Portal at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

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