Research Associate - Neural Plasticity

Description

 A little about us:

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) was established in 2010 to plot a new course in biomedical research that would change the lives of individuals affected with developmental brain disorders. We are one of the only research institutions in the world focused specifically on understanding how genes and the environment influence the way our brains develop that lead to conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, bipolar disorder and related developmental brain disorders. Through our cutting-edge research, answers are emerging and being translated into a robust pipeline of new drugs in development. And, by focusing on genes and their dynamic interplay with the environment, we are getting even closer to the “holy grail” in medical research, the discovery of strategies for primary prevention.

We are a group of dedicated, multidisciplinary and optimistic researchers, working at the cutting edge of science, utilizing state-of-the-art tools to unlock the mystery of the brain and transform the way we approach the development of new treatments, and ultimately cures. LIBD is an independent 501(c)(3) medical research institute located in the Bioscience Park on the campus of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital in Baltimore, MD.

Job Summary: 

We are seeking an enthusiastic and self-motivated individual to join our group as a Research Associate. This position is best suited for candidates with significant experience in molecular biology, next generation sequencing, library prep, FACS sorting, and microscopy. The successful applicant will work within a dynamic team-based environment in a translational research setting with a focus on spatial transcriptomics projects in postmortem human brain tissue. Projects aim to generate transcriptome-scale maps in the human brain to understand differences in spatial gene expression in neuropsychiatric disorders. The Research Associate will thoughtfully conduct experiments, analyze data, participate in experimental design, and train junior personnel 

Overview of Duties: 

· Assist with brain tissue dissections

· Cryosectioning postmortem human brain tissue

· RNA extraction and qPCR

· RNA-seq library construction

· Nuclei isolation and FACs sorting

· Immunocytochemistry and single-molecule fluorescent in situ hybridization 

· Confocal microscopy and slide scanning

· Data analysis in MATLAB and R programming languages

*This position description is intended to serve as a summary of the general purpose and essential functions of this position. It may change as circumstances warrant and may include other duties as deemed necessary by management.

Requirements

 Professional and Education Requirements: 

· A B.S. degree in Neuroscience, Biology, or a closely related field is required. MS degree is preferred

· Minimum 3 years of related laboratory research experience, including experience with RNA-seq is required

Familiarity with any of the following is a plus:

o Neuroanatomy 

o Confocal microscopy

o Programming in MATLAB, R or Python

Required Special Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

· Attention to detail and the ability to perform work carefully and efficiently is essential.

· Ability to execute experiments independently

· Ability to participate in experimental design and data analysis

· Willingness to follow detailed technical protocols

· Excellent organizational and communication skills

*Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis. Employment-based visa sponsorship (including H-1B sponsorship) is not available for this position.

Physical Requirements:

· Remaining in a seated or standing position for extended periods of time;

· Reaching and grasping to manipulate objects with fingers;

· Mobility, including the ability to maneuver around a laboratory setting including the ability to move materials weighing up to 25 pounds;

· Communication skills using the spoken and written word; 

· Having the ability to receive detailed information through oral communication;

· All other physical demands in a standard laboratory environment.

** If accommodations are needed due to pregnancy or a disability, please contact jobs@libd.org.  

Compensation

Candidates are hired within the starting salary range for the position which is the lower portion of the overall range. The starting salary range for this position is $52k - $55k with opportu