Research Scientist, Physiology and Biophysics

$65,000 - $65,000/Yr

University at Buffalo - Buffalo, NY

Full-time - Entry Level

Buffalo, NY

Educational Services

About the position

The University at Buffalo is seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist in the Physiology and Biophysics Department to join a dynamic research laboratory led by Prof. Dheeraj Roy. This position is focused on exploring the neural mechanisms that underlie learning, memory, and decision-making, as well as understanding their dysfunction in various disease states. The lab will employ cutting-edge molecular and systems neuroscience techniques, including single-nuclei and spatial transcriptomics, and the development of novel reporter tools using CRISPR/Cas9 for cell type-specific targeting in live animals. The research will also involve circuit tracing through whole-brain imaging techniques and physiological recordings from live animals using genetically-encoded calcium indicators, such as fiber photometry and single-cell-compatible miniscopes. Additionally, the lab will manipulate individual cell types and their circuits during behavior using optogenetics. The ideal candidate will be instrumental in establishing a systems neuroscience lab within the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in downtown Buffalo. While the initial focus will be on basic science questions, the long-term goal is to translate findings into human disease models, identifying potential therapeutic targets that can be applied to higher species. Candidates are encouraged to review previous publications from the lab to understand the research direction and expectations better. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in neuroscience and to be part of a collaborative and innovative team.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on neural mechanisms underlying learning, memory, and decision-making.
• Utilize molecular and systems neuroscience techniques for experimental studies.
• Develop novel reporter tools using CRISPR/Cas9 for cell type-specific targeting.
• Perform circuit tracing using whole-brain imaging techniques.
• Conduct physiological recordings from live animals using genetically-encoded calcium indicators.
• Manipulate individual cell types and their circuits during behavior using optogenetics.
• Collaborate with team members to establish a systems neuroscience lab.
• Translate basic science findings into potential therapeutic applications for human disease models.

Requirements

• PhD in neuroscience, biology, or related biomedical disciplines.
• Research experience in molecular biology, systems neuroscience, and/or computational approaches for analyzing RNA sequencing data and calcium imaging data.
• Proficiency in maintaining mouse lines and performing intracortical surgeries for calcium imaging/optogenetics.
• Strong communication skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with AI-based behavioral clustering techniques such as deeplabcut.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and retirement plan options.
• Support for work-life effectiveness.
• Access to a healthy mix of work, personal, and academic pursuits.