Assistant Research Scientist - Dept of Neuroscience & Pharmacology (Usachev Lab)

About the role

The Assistant Research Scientist will join the research laboratory of Dr. Yuriy Usachev. Research in the Usachev lab focuses on examination of novel mitochondrial proteins, their properties and functions and involves an array of molecular biological and genetic techniques, isolated mitochondria assays, cellular and subcellular Ca2+ imaging and transgenic mouse work.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental research work in a biomedical laboratory studying mitochondria, including testing and evaluating current procedures;
• Judge the validity of experimental data obtained;
• Prepare manuscripts;
• Prepare data for presentation at meetings and in manuscripts;
• Instruct students and other personnel in neurophysiological and molecular biological techniques and in the preparation of primary neuronal cultures.

Experiments, Simulations, Modeling or Theoretical Investigations

• Initiate research design and methodology to study novel mitochondrial proteins involved in transport of Ca2+ and other ions;
• Originate design, research conduct, and coordination using isolated mitochondrial assays, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, viral vector design, Ca2+ imaging, and Seahorse assays;
• Maintain laboratory equipment as needed;
• Develop hypotheses to be tested and select methodology;
• Work independently on complex research tasks with oversight by Faculty or Principal Investigator.

Data/Research Analysis and Evaluation

• Perform advanced data analysis techniques using Phylogeny, alignment, BLAST, and other gene analysis tools;
• Develop new applications of existing data analysis techniques.

Dissemination of Research Results

• Demonstrate strong publication record;
• Prepare and submit first author manuscripts for publication;
• May contribute to public data archives or other resources, e.g., software, models, or on-line tools to support scientific research.

Research Proposals/Grants

• Serve as co-PI, contribute to research proposals and funding agency reports;
• May write research proposal to obtain independent funding as PI;
• Select and purchase equipment as needed.

Service

• Serve as a leader in the scientific community, which may include serving on proposal review panels and contributing to peer-review process;
• Serve on departmental or University committees;
• Organize outreach efforts in alliance with funding sources.

Human Resources/Supervision

• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students;
• Provide direction, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling to assure outcomes are achieved;
• Maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students and the public.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in biology, or a related field;
• Demonstrated excellent written and verbal, and interpersonal communication skills;
• Ability to work autonomously, problem solve and effectively manage own time/workload to meet project goals with minimal oversight;
• Basic Molecular Biology and genome modification techniques;
• Real-Time (RT)-PCR, RNA sequencing and protein techniques for high throughput data;
• Gene cloning techniques and development of shRNA constructs;
• HPLC, LC-MS and Gas Chromatography- Mass spectroscopy (GC-MS)
• Mammalian cell culture, iPSC cells handling and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing;
• Seahorse assay, Calcium Imaging, and respirometry;
• Functional assays in isolated mitochondria from various tissues;
• Experience using mouse models of tauopathy, epilepsy and other pathological conditions;
• Gene analysis software including, Phylogeny, alignment, BLAST;
• Statistical Tools: Graph-pad Prism®, Sigma Plot.

Desired Qualifications

• Postdoctoral experience of 5 or more years of conducting highly technical and specialized scientific research focused on mitochondria;
• Experience using functional assays in isolated mitochondria;
• Experience studying mitochondrial Ca2+ transporters, including MCU and TMEM65;
• Experience using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing;
• Expertise in gene cloning techniques and development of shRNA constructs;
• Experience with human iPSCs;
• Experience with excitable cell cultures;
• Experience of working with transgenic animals with disrupted mitochondrial function;
• Established track record of scientific productivity (e.g., authorships in peer-reviewed publications).
• Excellent organizational and communication skills and ability to work independently.