Job Abstract

The Margolis Lab, led by David Margolis, Ph.D., uses advanced imaging, physiological, anatomical, and behavioral techniques to study the neural underpinnings of sensorimotor integration.

We use in vivo two photon microscopy and widefield imaging of calcium sensors, multiunit electrophysiology, ex vivo slice electrophysiology, immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy.

Our work is funded by the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, and New Jersey Commission on Brain Injury Research.

We are currently seeking a Postdoctoral Associate.

Ph.D. in Neuroscience of related field (e.g., Psychology, Neurobiology)

PhD in Neuroscience or Biomedical Sciences
1-2 years of previous postdoctoral experience preferred
Experience with neuroscience research using mice
Experience with mouse models of neurological disease or injury
Experience with measurement of neuronal structure
Experience with analysis of various brain areas, including hippocampus and cortex
Experience with authorship of multiple scientific publications
Willingness to relocate for full-time position
Fluency in Spanish

45 % Perform neuroscience experiments in mouse models using in vivo physiological recordings. Expected outcomes relate to data on brain function collected using methods including, but not limited to, fiber photometry and two-photon microscopy. These duties are performed by carrying out surgical procedures, animal handling, and collecting data in live imaging experiments. Perform neuroscience experiments in mouse models using behavioral measurements. Expected outcomes relate to data on mouse behavior collected using methods including, but not limited to, high-speed video, and behavioral paradigms. These duties are performed by carrying out animal handling and behavioral data collection procedures.

30 % Perform analysis of neural and behavioral data collected during experiments in mouse models. Expected outcomes relate to deeper quantitative understanding of the collected data and include, but are not limited to, preparing code for analysis in python or MATLAB, preparing graphs and tables using appropriate software. These duties are performed using standard desktop or laptop computers, or interfacing with servers. 

15 % Literature analysis of relevant studies related to the ongoing projects. Expected outcomes relate to deeper understanding of the details and context of scientific studies, and synthesizing this understanding into original ideas. These duties are performed using standard desktop or laptop computers. Drafting manuscripts and grants. Expected outcomes relate to writing the results of experiments and literature analysis into manuscript and grant drafts for further collaborative work with the PI, Dr. Margolis. These duties are performed using standard desktop or laptop computers.

10 % Administrative tasks, including for example, ordering supplies, filing reimbursements, performing online trainings. Expected outcomes relate to contributing to a smoothly operating laboratory by keeping up with necessary administrative tasks. These duties are performed using standard desktop or laptop computers. Training other personnel. Expected outcomes relate to helping others in the lab become accustomed to standard operating procedures. These duties are performed in the laboratory by explaining to new personnel how basic laboratory tasks are done.

Nelson Biology Labs