Post-Doctoral Associate - Department of Neuroscience

About the Job

In this role, you will have the opportunity to conduct research investigating the molecular mechanisms that lead to cognitive decline in rodent models of Huntington's disease (HD). We perform intracerebral injections to achieve silencing of specific targets in the brain to explore their impact in modulating various cognitive and motor behaviors. We also study the mechanisms by which synaptic dysfunction relevant to the controls of basal ganglia circuits occur and how to exploit that knowledge to improve behavioral outcomes.

In addition, we investigate how specific synaptic proteins, both in vivo and in vitro respond to the presence of mutant HTT, the causal protein of HD, and how to improve or disrupt the interaction of key protein-protein interactions relevant for synaptic function and behavior.

Responsibilities Include:

Research- 80%

* Conduct mouse handling, behavioral testing and perform survival surgeries using intracerebral injections of AAVs and intracardiac perfusions.

* Dissect and prepare brain samples for imaging and biochemical analyses.

* Conduct standardized techniques (e.g., ESLISA kits, PCR, immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, chromatin immunoprecipitation).

* Culture immortalized and primary neuron cultures

* Prepare buffers, reagents, and other solutions.

* Keep meticulously detailed records of all experiments and procedures in a laboratory notebook; perform statistical analyses of data obtained from experiments and render interpretations of the data.

Operations - 10%

* Keep the laboratory stocked, maintain inventories of supplies and order items as necessary.

* Properly handle hazardous materials and dispose of all waste materials in an appropriate manner.

* Maintain chemical inventories and read and maintain appropriate Material Data Sheets and safety files.

* Become familiar with the assigned literature, attend weekly lab meetings, participate in laboratory journal clubs, and report to the PI regularly on progress.

* Assist and eventually independently write study protocols, standard operating procedures (SOPs) manuscripts and grant applications.

Presenting and Instruction - 10%

* Present research summary in national and international meetings in oral and poster format by preparing abstracts and slides for presentation.

* Instruct students, fellows and other inexperienced professional persons in proper laboratory methods and procedures.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

* A Doctorate Degree (PhD, which is completed within the last 3 years) in relevant scientific fields (neuroscience, physiology, molecular biology, pharmacology)

* Previous lab experience in cell culture

* Knowledge of the basic principles of biological science is required to assess observations, prepare specimens, run a variety of behavioral and biological assays, interpret the results of standardized tests, etc.

* Sufficient knowledge of the physiology of mice is necessary in order to induce anesthesia, perform surgeries, and collect tissue and/or fluid samples

* Must possess or be able to readily obtain certification to perform animal studies and procedures

* Sufficient knowledge of mathematics and statistics is required to analyze and interpret test results.

* Knowledge and skill sufficient to maintain and operate standard instruments (fluorescence microscopes, pH meters, etc).

Preferred Qualifications:

* Prior experience with rodents

* Knowledge of common histological preparations and microscopy.

* Proficiency in cell culture, cloning and molecular biology techniques

* Experience with manuscript and grant writing is a plus.

About the Department

Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system. It is an interdisciplinary science that collaborates with other fields such as chemistry, computer science, engineering, linguistics, mathematics, medicine and allied disciplines, philosophy, physics, and psychology.

The Department of Neuroscience is committed to providing excellence in research, education, and public service. The Department of Neuroscience is part of the University of Minnesota's Medical School.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $62,232 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time…