An
exceptional opportunity is available immediately for an early- or mid- career neuroscientist in the Geffen laboratory at the University of Pennsylvania. The long-term goal of our research is to identify the neuronal circuits
and neuronal codes that support hearing and auditory memory and learning
in complex acoustic environments. Auditory perception is shaped by the
interaction of sensory inputs with our experiences, emotions, and
cognitive states. Decades of research have characterized how neuronal
response properties to basic sounds, such as tones or whistles, are
transformed in the auditory pathway of passively listening subjects.
Much less well-understood is how the brain creates a perceptual
representation of a complex auditory scene, i.e., one that is composed
of a myriad of sounds, and how this representation is shaped by learning
and experience. Over the last ten years, our laboratory has made
transformative progress in the quantitative understanding of neuronal
circuits supporting dynamic auditory perception, through a combination
of behavioral, electrophysiological, optogenetic and computational approaches.
As a research technician, you will have the opportunity to learn a host
of innovative techniques and to make a direct impact on the
laboratory's research.
The Research Specialist A will conduct research and
provide technical support to several projects studying the neuronal
circuits for auditory perception and cognition using electrophysiological, optogenetic, imaging and behavioral methods in mice. The position requires basic knowledge of neuroscience, biology and
chemistry. Responsibilities include: behavioral training of rodents,
assistance with electrophysiological,
optogenetic and imaging experiments, maintaining a mouse colony,
genotyping, immunohistochemistry of brain tissue, data analysis,
organization and maintenance of laboratory logs, data curation and
backup, laboratory maintenance. Ability to keep accurate records and
excellent organizational skills are essential. We are looking for a
creative, friendly and responsible individual.
In
addition to the above responsibilities, the Research Specialist B is
expected to develop novel solutions to research questions in addition to
using established methods. Technology development and troubleshooting
will be expected as well as independently planning experiments with
minimal oversight.
We also have an advanced technician/lab manager position available. Research Specialist C will take leadership of a
specific project and/or supervise other laboratory members working as part
of a team.
Our laboratory is a close community of
fun-loving scientists, striving to help each other while exploring the
mysteries of the brain. Our trainees have won numerous awards and have
been awarded government and private foundation grants. We value diversity and promote equity in the scientific community and beyond.
The systems neuroscience community at the University of Pennsylvania is
top-notch and highly collaborative, and our lab members will have
opportunities to engage in interdepartmental initiatives, including MindCore, MINS and CNI.
Penn has a gorgeous campus and offers many cultural activities.
Philadelphia is a beautiful city with world-class music, food and
entertainment.
To apply, please email your CV and a paragraph on why you're interested in the position to mgeffen@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx .