Research Scientist, Anesthesiology

State of Virginia - Charlottesville, VA

Full-time - Entry Level

Charlottesville, VA

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The Wenker Laboratory at the University of Virginia's Department of Anesthesiology invites applications for a Research Scientist. The Wenker Lab focuses on brainstem neural circuits that contribute to fatal seizures, and this position will support a newly funded NIH R01 grant focused on elucidating mechanisms of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). The experiments proposed are cutting-edge and address the essential and open field of SUDEP research.

Responsibilities

• Execute stereotaxic surgeries involving electrode/optrode implantation, viral vector injection, and cardiac/muscle lead surgery.
• Work autonomously to plan, conduct, and troubleshoot experiments recording various biosignals such as EEG, EKG, blood pressure, plethysmography, and breathing muscle EMG in mice, using established systems within the laboratory.
• Apply standard preclinical epilepsy/seizure protocols, pharmacology, and optogenetic techniques.
• Perform patch-clamp recordings from brainstem neurons as required.
• Engage in immunohistochemical staining, fluorescence microscopy, and other standard wet laboratory procedures, including solution preparation, different imaging approaches, and electrode construction.
• Undertake general laboratory duties such as ordering supplies and managing mouse colonies.
• Meet weekly with the principal investigator to discuss progress and troubleshoot projects; attend and present findings semi-frequently (every 2-3 months) at the Epilepsy Interest Group meetings at UVA.
• Peer review manuscripts, replicate findings from other lab members, assist in preparing presentations, and perform additional standard biological experiments as needed.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Physiology, Neurobiology, or a related field. Or master's degree with significant experience.

Nice-to-haves

• Relative expertise in brainstem control of cardiovascular and respiratory function, preclinical epilepsy research, and/or advanced neurophysiological techniques.

Benefits

• Determined based on educational background and experience. This is an Exempt level, benefited position. For more information on the benefits at UVA, visit hr.virginia.edu/benefits.