Research specialist in neurodegenerative disease

Med-Neurology - Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh - (22007289)

This is a new position within the neurodegeneration research group (principal investigator: Edward A Burton, MD, DPhil, FRCP). Working with the PI and a senior research scientist, the post holder will make key contributions to experimental studies aiming to understand the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease, progressive supranuclear palsy and related disorders, and test experimental treatments for these diseases. The principal duties of the position relate to mouse and zebrafish models. Zebrafish work will include: live imaging of zebrafish larvae by confocal or epifluorescence microscopy; testing chemicals in zebrafish neurobehavioral and cell death assays; assist in the day-to-day management of a large colony of unique transgenic and gene knockout zebrafish; carry out microinjections, PCR genotyping, sorting transgenic animals, preparing samples for analysis. Mouse work will include: genotyping transgenic mice; weighing, dose calculation, and administering experimental drugs to mice; carrying out neurobehavioral testing; preparing tissues for analysis. Additional duties may include: maintenance of equipment, ordering supplies, preparation of common shared reagents, assisting the principal investigator with maintaining IACUC and recombinant DNA protocol or other research-related duties as requested by the PI. The post holder will be expected to participate in weekly lab meetings.The hours of duty for this post are: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, including 30 minutes break (37.5 hours per week). When required by an experimental protocol, it may be necessary for experimental work to be done outside these times, in which case working hours will be adjusted and agreed in advance with the PI. University holidays, annual and sick leave entitlements are detailed in the relevant University policies. Starting salary will be determined by University of Pittsburgh salary scales, depending on qualifications, training, and relevant experience.Prior experience with animal models (especially mice) is required, although training will be provided on specific aspects of the project. Ability to work in a team, outstanding communication skills (including written and spoken English), attention to detail, strong motivation to contribute to research in neurological disease, and commitment to academic rigor and excellence are all essential.

Prior work with animal models is absolutely essential; prior work with mouse models of neurological disease would be highly advantageous. Prior experience with confocal microscopy, image analysis and molecular biology would be helpful. Working knowledge of videography and MATLAB would be advantageous. Significate relevant experience may be substituted for advanced degree requirements The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets. The University of Pittsburgh requires all Pitt constituents (employees and students) on all campuses to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or have an approved exemption. Visit coronavirus.pitt.edu to learn more about this requirement.

Assignment Category Full-time regular

Job Classification Staff.Research.III Non-Exempt

Campus Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required Baccalaureate

Minimum Experience Level Required 2-3 years experience

Work Schedule Monday - Friday, 8:30-5:00

Work Arrangement On-Campus: Teams that work on campus, in an office, or in a lab.

Hiring Range $23,868.00 - $37,752.00

Relocation Offered No

Visa Sponsorship Provided No

Background Check For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances Not Applicable

Required Documents Resume

Optional Documents Not Applicable