Post-Doctoral Associate - Department of Neuroscience

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.

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.

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

Time Appointment: 100%

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

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.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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