"Post-Doctoral Associate - Department of Neuroscience"

About the Job

In this role, you will have the opportunity to conduct research related to the effects of exogenous and endogenous opioids on brain function and behavior, using laboratory mice as an experimental system. This includes behavioral tests following manipulations of opioid signaling, as well as measurements of opioid system function in brain tissue, including opioid-induced changes in synaptic transmission.

Responsibilities Include:

Research- 70%

• Conduct mouse handling, husbandry, breeding, colony maintenance, and behavioral testing
• Prepare acute brain slices and conduct whole-cell patch-clamp recordings
• Independently perform surgery and perfusions on experimental animals.
• Collect brain tissue samples from experimental animals; store and analyze the tissue (e.g., PCR, immunohistochemistry).
• Prepare buffers, reagents, and other solutions and test for pH level.
• 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 - 20%

• 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.
• Adjust, calibrate, and perform minor repairs on equipment used in the laboratory.
• 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) in neuroscience or a related scientific field (e.g., psychology, genetics, biology)
• At least two years of postdoctoral research experience in neuroscience
• 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 rats and 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 whole-cell patch-clamp recording in acute brain slice preparations
• Knowledge of common histological preparations to prepare tissues for examination
• Experience with manuscript and grant writing

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: $65,640 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.