Post Doctoral Associate - Ko Lab

Overview

The Ko Laboratory in the Department of Psychiatry at University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine is seeking a Post-Doctoral Associate to study the functional roles of the spinal and supraspinal ligand-receptor systems in non-human primates (NHP). The Ko lab is focused on behavioral neuropharmacology of pain and addiction. We developed and established multiple behavioral (e.g., intravenous drug self-administration and pain-depressed operant behavior) and physiological (e.g., ECG and EEG) measurements in awake, behaving rhesus macaques. These clinically relevant study endpoints facilitate the assessment of the functional efficacy and therapeutic window of novel therapeutics in NHP models, along with the analysis of RNAscope and RNAseq of the NHP tissues. Our research program is highly translational and aims for the advancement of viable targets to develop effective medications for pain and substance use disorders.

This individual is expected to work as a team member with the principal investigator, undergraduate and graduate students, and laboratory specialists. In addition, s/he is expected to prepare and write high-quality journal articles, present research results in scientific workshops and conferences, and participate in grant writing.

This position offers opportunities for growth and expansion of research skills in translational neuroscience research setting. The successful candidate will join a vibrant and highly collaborative research environment at Pitt Med with tremendous growing opportunities. The PI and Department of Psychiatry will support and help the successful candidates develop and enhance their career in either academia or industry. If interested, please contact the PI, Mei-Chuan (Holden) Ko, by email: [email protected]

Duties

1) collaborates with PI to manage ongoing and prepare for new non-human primate studies, 2) supervises drug preparation and administration in non-human primates, 3) assists with training for new personnel regarding the use of non-human primates and the operation of lab equipment and instruments, 4) assists with specimen collection, 5) conducts data analysis for the RNAscope, telemetry, and EEG experiments, 6) collaborates with PI on publications and grant submissions, and 7) prepares and presents scientific presentations

Qualifications

• PhD in Pharmacology, Neuroscience or related field with demonstrated research experience.
• Extensive laboratory experience in animal models.
• Proficiency in the data analysis of the telemetry device.
• Strong background in the RNAscope and RNAseq techniques.
• Knowledge of pain and/or substance use disorders preferred.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for presenting research findings clearly and accurately. This position offers a vibrant environment where your expertise will directly contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in the research and development of novel medications for CNS diseases. We value curiosity-driven scientists eager to make impactful contributions while developing their professional skills in a supportive setting.

Pay: $60,000.00 - $75,564.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person