Post Doctoral Assoc

will facilitate the development of orexin-based therapies that can effectively treat the multifaceted symptoms associated with this neural system. This Post Doc Associate will perform research using advanced behavioral, chemogenetic and neuroscience approaches in rodent memory, stress and reward self-administration models. Research will use orexin-cre rats and local microinjections of DIO viral vectors into brain, immunohistochemical analyses, as well as assays for behavioral phenotypes to identify brain circuits responsible for neuropsychiatric disorders associated with decision, memory and motivational dysfunctions. Among the key duties of this position are the following: Analyze, organize, and present data at laboratory meetings and major scientific meetings. As directed, perform various research and clinical technical operations relative to ongoing investigatory activities of a laboratory; may assist in conducting specialized research for a particular phase of a project. Conduct behavioral and pharmacological experiments in rodents to develop novel therapeutic approaches to treat disorders of stress, decision-making, memory, motivation and reward. Conduct behavioral and pharmacological experiments in rodents to develop novel therapeutic approaches to mitigate symptoms associated with stress, depression and/or Alzheimer's disease. Conduct behavioral, anatomic, chemogenetic, pharmacological and chemogenetic experiments in rodents to delineate mechanisms underlying drug abuse. Conduct conditioned place preference, and learning and memory tasks, intracerebral infusions, and pharmacological manipulations in rodents to develop novel therapeutic approaches to prevent development of addiction propensity during chronic administration of drugs of abuse. Keeps detailed records of procedures and experiences. Performs various research and technical operations relative to ongoing investigatory activities of a laboratory; may assist in conducting specialized research for a particular phase of a project. Perform rodent surgical techniques, in particular stereotaxic brain surgery and microinjections using fine glass micropipettes Minimum Education and Experience: A PhD Degree in Neuroscience, Biological Sciences, or a relevant field is required plus 3 years of related research experience. The incumbent should also demonstrate a record of productivity as first author on two or more published works. City: Piscataway State: NJ Physical Demands and Work Environment: PHYSICAL DEMANDS : Sitting, standing, walking, reaching, kneeling, talking and hearing. Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. WORK ENVIRONMENT : Scientific research laboratory. Computer data input. Universal safety precautions are mandatory. Lab environment. Moderate noise. Exposure to blood, excrement, anti-neoplastic drugs and possible exposure to infectious and communicable diseases. Exposure to hazardous chemicals. Salary: $64,000 Posting Number: 26ST1730