Research Associate in Biology

UVA Health•Charlottesville, VA

1d•$61,000 - $64,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Biology at the University of Virginia is seeking a postdoctoral Research Associate for Dr. Harris Kaplan’s lab. This lab investigates infant brain function and behavior, including sleep and parent-infant interactions, using mice as a model system. The research associate will focus on rigorously defining infant sleep behaviors in infant mice and identifying subcortical cell types that regulate infant mouse sleep. This will involve using electrophysiological tools to measure brain state in head-fixed infant mice and dissecting small brainstem and hypothalamic regions for single-nucleus RNA-sequencing to identify cell types related to sleep state. The selected candidate will support research initiatives, mentor students, complete planned project work, and develop new ideas and approaches to advance the project.

Requirements

A PhD in Neuroscience, Biology, or a related field by the start date.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated expertise in electrophysiology in head-fixed infant rodents.
Experience in defining sleep states in rodents, especially infants.
Demonstrated technical experience including brain histology, rodent husbandry, and behavior, and/or standard molecular biology techniques.
Strong ability in experimental design, data analysis, and data management.
Excellent written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by publications, conferences, or other forms of scientific communication.
Ability to develop and learn new technical skills and approaches.
Proficiency with computer software, including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
Ability to work independently and as a team member.
Experience and ability in mentorship of junior lab members.
Ability to show initiative and leadership within and beyond the lab.