Life Science Research Professional 3

The Mitra Laboratory within the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University's School of Medicine is seeking a Life Science Research Professional 3 (LSRP 3). The LSRP 3 will perform complex functions and activities in the area of systems neuroscience in rodents utilizing the scientific techniques of optogenetics and optical imaging in combination with complex head-fixed rodent behavioral paradigms, with the expectation of independently conduct a major portion of the research project(s), including design optimization, hands-on execution of the research, and data analysis.

Duties include:

• Design research approaches for all-optical (including optical imaging and optogenetic perturbation) neural recordings in head-fixed rodent behaviors including go/no-go paradigms, two-alternative forced choice behaviors, and virtual navigation.
• Develop new protocols optimizing the combination of complex rodent behaviors and all optical interrogation of brain-wide activity.
• Perform complex optical measurement and perturbation experiments in behaving rodents and maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes; analyze and interpret research data resulting from original procedures and methods.
• Assist with new research proposals and applications for funding and grants.
• Assist in the preparation of periodic progress reports or written reports on all phases of the research project.
• Contribute substantively to the preparation of papers for publication, especially in the results section. May be a co-author on publications. Present ongoing work and findings to colleagues at academic conferences.
• Perform ongoing literature review to remain current with new procedures and related research; propose new research directions based on new advances discussed in literature.
• Oversee supply and equipment budget under minimal supervision of principal investigator or business manager.
• Work with health and safety department to ensure lab complies with regulations and all required trainings.
• Formally supervise and train new staff or students as needed, including hiring, performance management, and related duties, in addition to instruction on techniques and consultation on project work.

• - Other duties may also be assigned

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• 4+ years of experience with optical imaging of the rodent brain, optogenetic perturbation in rodents, and design/execution of head-fixed rodent behaviors.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

• Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and four years of relevant work experience; or Master's degree in a related scientific field and two years relevant experience; or PhD in related science field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
• Expert level knowledge and skills in field of science related to research project.
• General computer skills, experience with databases and scientific applications, and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs.
• Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to complete detailed work accurately.
• Developing project management skills.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
• Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
• Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
• Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
• Position may require repetitive motion.

* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
• May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
• Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
• Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
• May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

The expected pay range for this position is $81,000 to $106,000 per annum. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.