Technical Assoc-Sr (S)
Rochester, NY
Responsibilities
Position Summary:
With minimal supervision, design, execute, problem-solve, and analyze molecular biological, immunocytochemical, calcium imaging, and electrophysiological experiments related to the regulation of synaptic transmission and plasticity by serine/threonine protein phosphatases and their interaction proteins in hippocampus and cortex. Perform multiple laboratory functions including whole cell voltage clamping of culture neurons and brain slice neurons, imaging, and confocal and two photon microscopy experiments. Individual will use these approaches to pursue independent research projects and will also assist with the supervision and training of other lab personnel in these techniques. Advanced knowledge and experience in neurobiology, calcium imaging, and electrophysiology as well as evidence of significant prior independent research experience is required. Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to conduct cutting-edge research independently and to work in a laboratory team environment with a diverse group of personnel are essential.
Responsibilities:
In accordance with broadly-outlined objectives, will independently plan, design and conduct technical procedures, non-routine and complex in nature. Pursue independent research projects that will include conducting and analyzing electrophysiological, imaging, immunocytochemical, and molecular biological experiments in cultured neurons and acute brain slices. Will set-up and operate state-of-the-art equipment and instruments. With latitude for modifying methods and techniques, will work independently to record and analyze data, make recommendations for future experiments, prepare reports and manuscripts, and present data at laboratory, local and national meetings.
Electrophysiology on neurons in brain slices. Design and conduct whole-cell voltage or current clamp experiments to determine the magnitude, voltage dependence, and kinetics of synaptic transmission in brain neurons in hippocampus. Measurements will include quantifying calcium channel conductance, gating currents, and voltage-gated calcium release in acute brain slices. Results analyzed using custom Igor-based software, Sigmaplot and/or other software suites. Prior experience in patch clamp brain slice electrophysiological techniques and analyses is required.
Electrophysiology on cultured neurons. Design and conduct whole-cell voltage experiments to determine the magnitude and frequency of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSC), and evoked response from paired neurons. Measurements will include quantifying channel conductance, gating currents, and voltage-gated calcium release in cultured neurons. Results analyzed using custom Igor-based software, Sigmaplot and/or other software suites. Prior experience in electrophysiological techniques and analyses is required. Prior experience with single channel recording is a plus but not required.
Imaging Experiments. Measure electrically-evoked and ligand-induced changes in global cytosolic calcium concentrations or GFP signals in neurons using single wavelength and ratiometric fluorescent Ca2+ indicators. Monitor Ca2+ changes in subcellular compartments using Ca2+ sensitive fluorescent probes targeted to specific intracellular organelles (i.e. spines, endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria). Electroporation, and adenoviral vector injection approaches will be used for gene delivery. Real time imaging, and confocal/two photon microscopy approaches will be used to assess changes in global cytoplasmic and compartmental calcium. Prior experience in microscopy and fluorescence recordings/analyses is required.
Train and supervise laboratory staff (technicians, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, etc.) in electrophysiology and imaging procedures.
Manuscript Preparation, Research Reports, Proposals. Work with PI to generate manuscripts describing research results including assembly of figures/legends, drafting manuscript text (abstract, introduction, results, discussion), finalizing/submitting manuscripts, and assisting with the resubmission process including responding to reviewer concerns. Provide information to prepare grant progress reports and for new grant proposal submisisons.
Periodically present project updates at lab meetings and posters summarizing results at local and national meetings. Collect and review researches articles and new information pertaining to specific projects, and for grant proposal submissions.
Qualifications:
M.S. in Biology or combination of education and experience with a minimum of 3 years of experience in fluorescence imaging and electrophysiological techniques, or with the equivalent with a Master’s Degree in experience.
5 years of experience in fluorescence imaging and electrophysiological. Ability to conduct research projects independently and to listen to, convey, and exchange information with other laboratory personnel.
Experience and strong working knowledge of computers, scientific software, Excel, Word, etc.
This position requires the use of eyes, hands, and fingers with skill and the ability to perform mathematical calculations using algebra and practically apply percentages, fractions, and ratios.
Ability to communicate effectively, follow instructions exactly, and record information accurately is required.
Must have excellent interpersonal skills.
This position may entail prolonged periods of standing and walking and requires the safe use of toxic chemicals.
How To Apply
All applicants must apply online.
EOE Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled
Pay Range
Pay Range: $63,815 - $95,723 Annually
The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job’s compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.
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