A full time Research Associate position is available in the OHSU Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine. This position will entail the performance of basic and translational research focusing on the mechanisms controlling neuronal circuit function in both healthy and diseased brains in a dynamic neuroscience laboratory environment. The successful candidate for this position will participate in high impact research at the intersection of experimental neuroscience, neurophysiology and clinical translation.
Our laboratory studies the mammalian brain, both from a molecular/cellular perspective, as well as at the level of neuronal microcircuit function. Ongoing projects within the lab utilize genetic and viral approaches to label neurons and to manipulate their gene expression and activity, with the goal of understanding their functional properties at the synaptic and circuit level. We are also exploring how these neurons wire into circuits in the context of various neurologic diseases, such as epilepsy and traumatic brain injury, with the intention of using this knowledge to improve human health. Experimental techniques utilize molecular biology, single cell electrophysiology from neurons in brain slices, translational brain injury and epilepsy modeling, immunohistochemistry, and confocal imaging approaches.
This position involves technical, experimental, and administrative components. Approximately 20 hours per week will be spent in support of several different projects within the lab, and include molecular biology/subcloning, cell culture, mouse colony maintenance and genotyping, immunohistochemical sample preparation and processing, and confocal microscopy. The remainder of the position will involve the performance of collaborative research, including translational brain injury modeling and analysis of neuronal circuit structure and plasticity. The optimal candidate would be interested and willing to contribute to going projects, and eventually develop and sustain an independent project in collaboration with their mentor (Dr. Eric Schnell) and other lab members.
It is assumed that all candidates will have had substantial biology exposure as undergraduates, interest in neurobiological research, and be interested in independent research. Undergraduate laboratory experience is preferred, but specific knowledge of individual techniques is not required, as they will be taught to the individual by laboratory members. A high level of engagement in this work is essential, as are strong record-keeping, organizational skills, and attention to detail. Ability/willingness to make a two year commitment is strongly preferred.
PI249423031
Published: a week ago