Research Associate

About the role

The Department of Psychiatry at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania seeks candidates for a Research Associate position in the Academic Support Staff. This appointment will be initially for one (1) year with continuation during that time period and renewal based on satisfactory performance and availability of funding (limited to three (3) years).

Responsibilities

• Conduct research investigating the neural and molecular mechanisms underlying interactions between sensory processing and sleep using Drosophila models of neurodevelopmental disorders.
• Design and execute experiments.
• Perform Drosophila genetics and behavioral studies.
• Analyze and interpret data.
• Prepare manuscripts and presentations.
• Supervise and mentor junior laboratory members.
• Lead ongoing and new studies examining how sensory processing, neural function, and internal state interact to regulate sleep.
• Develop and apply genetic and imaging approaches to investigate underlying mechanisms.
• Contribute to manuscripts and grant applications.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate researchers.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in neuroscience, biology, or a related field.
• Substantial research experience using Drosophila to investigate neural mechanisms of behavior.
• Expertise in Drosophila neurogenetics and behavioral neuroscience.
• Demonstrated experience in quantitative sleep and behavioral analysis.
• Experience with genetic manipulation of defined neuronal populations.
• Experience in experimental investigation of sensory and neural function.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with sleep and/or sensory neuroscience.
• Experience with fluorescence imaging.
• Experience with molecular approaches.
• Experience with quantitative data analysis.
• Experience with scientific writing.
• Experience with mentoring.