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Microstimulation Postdoctoral position (Updated 04/26/2024)

The University of Pittsburgh’s BRIDGE-STIM (Breakthrough Research in Intracortical Dynamics and Galvanizing Exploration of Sensorimotor Technology through Integrating Multi-species Data) is seeking two post-doctoral associates in the field of Neural Engineering. The research focus is on understanding the impact of intracortical microstimulation on brain activity across species. Both positions are funded for two years and provide training opportunities for research in humans, non-human primates, and mice.

Project Details: We are an interdisciplinary team seeking to bridge the gap in understanding the neural mechanisms of intracortical microstimulation (ICMS) across species. The open positions are for a project that involves Forward and Reverse Translational Research. In reverse translation, we conduct ICMS experiments in subjects who have spinal cord injuries and are implanted with microelectrode arrays in motor and somatosensory cortex. To gain a mechanistic understanding of the evoked neural activity and perception of ICMS, we conduct follow up experiments in non-human primates (NHPs), mice, and computational models. In reverse translation, we leverage the knowledge gained from the animal and computational models to optimize ICMS parameters for sensory feedback in clinical subjects controlling a brain-machine interface.

Key Responsibilities: • Conduct integrated experiments using a variety of modern neuroscience tools, including high-density electrophysiological recordings, brain-machine interface, optogenetics, 2-photon imaging, intrinsic signal optical imaging, and slice electrophysiology. • Collaborate with a diverse team to interrogate relationships between ICMS, cell and circuit activation, and conscious perception. • Prepare results for publications and scientific presentations.

Candidates should hold a PhD in a related field and have an interest in one or more of the laboratories leading this project: Dr. Robert Gaunt (RNEL), Dr. Omar Gharbawie (Neurobiology), Dr. Takashi Kozai (Bioengineering), Dr. Alberto Vazquez (Radiology), Dr. Mac Hooks (Neurobiology) and Dr. Chengcheng Huang (Neuroscience & Mathematics). The ideal candidate has expertise in conducting experiments in NHPs, or mice, or in computational modeling. Experience with high-throughput or multi-modal neural data analysis is desired. There will be significant opportunities for cross-training across the member labs. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing the utility of electrical stimulation in neural interfaces, which will shape the development of more effective and translatable neurotechnologies. Join us in pushing the boundaries of neuroscience and engineering to unlock the full potential of electrical stimulation in both research and clinical applications. Appointments are for 2 years and may be renewed depending on performance and funds.

To apply, please send a cover letter and curriculum vitae (CV) as a single pdf document to Tomika Cohen ( [email protected] ) and include “BRIDGE-STIM Post-Doctoral Application” in the title of your email. The University of Pittsburgh is strongly committed to a diverse academic environment and places high priority on attracting female and underrepresented minority candidates. We strongly encourage candidates from these groups to apply for the position. The University affirms and actively promotes the rights of all individuals to equal opportunity in education and employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, age, religion, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other protected class.

Two Research Technician positions available in our cognitive neurophysiology NHP lab (Updated 04/01/2024)

The Mendoza-Halliday Lab is currently seeking candidates for two Research Technician positions (2 years or more). Our Lab uses cutting-edge tools for high-count multi-area neuronal recordings & optogenetics to investigate how neurons generate, monitor, and transform mental representations in working memory for their use in cognition. The Lab is affiliated with the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh and is located in the Mellon Institute at Carnegie Mellon University.  

Position 1 : Duties include animal behavioral training and neuronal recordings in NHPs, and lab management duties. Candidates with an academic background in Neuroscience (or related field in Biological Sciences, Medicine, or Engineering) and experience working with animals in research or veterinary settings are particularly encouraged to apply.

Position 2 : Duties include setting up and working with behavioral and electrophysiological data acquisition and analysis equipment (electronics and computers) and software, computer programming, and lab management duties. Candidates with an academic background in Neuroscience (or related field in Biological Sciences, Medicine, or Engineering) and experience working with electronic equipment, computer programming, software, and hardware are particularly encouraged to apply.

The positions are ideal for candidates interested in technical research work in a Cognitive Neurophysiology lab or in gaining research experience as preparation for future PhD Program applications. For more information about the lab and to apply, visit our website at http://www.mendoza-halliday-lab.com .

Research Specialist/Post-baccalaureate Postition opening (Updated 03/18/2024)

Research Specialist/Post-baccalaureate Position at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Clinical Neurophysiology Research Laboratory   We seek two Research Specialists to join the laboratory. The main research goal of the CNRL is to further understand the progressive pathology of emerging psychosis and to develop novel biomarkers and interventions. We utilize multimodal imaging including electroencephalography (EEG), magnetoencephalography (MEG), structural MRI, MR diffusion imaging, fMRI, and MR pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling measures of blood perfusion. Brain activity measures span simple sensory and perceptual processes to complex higher-order cognition. We have several on-going funded projects looking at sensory processing, attention effects on sensory signals, clinical and social effects of poor sensation and executive modulation, structural and functional connectomics of auditory hallucinations, non-invasive brain stimulation to improve perceptual and cognition, computational modeling to transform EEG and MEG signals to circuit and synaptic events, and biological measures of recovery in the first year of psychosis.   We seek an exceptional individual with a year or two semesters minimum research experience, preferably in EEG, MEG, or MRI. A strong interest in clinical research or psychosis is required, as are strong inter-personal skills for interacting with psychiatrically-ill and well participants. We prefer a recent graduate who plans to go to graduate or medical school and seeks a 2 year (or longer) post-baccalaureate position. Funding is in place. Start date is flexible. If interested, please contact Prof. Salisbury or Prof. Coffman via e-mail (attach your resume and GPA): [email protected] or [email protected] .

Postdoctoral positions available for training in Neurobiology of Neurological Disease (Updated 02/05/2024) The University of Pittsburgh seeks to fill at least four NIH NINDS T32-funded postdoctoral positions for training in the Neurobiology of Neurological Disease. A primary goal of this training program is to provide a crucial clinical component to the education of postdoctoral fellows. A second major goal is to ensure that trainees are provided with mentored research training to create a pathway to independence. This T32 program is administered by the Department of Neurobiology and directed by Dr. Peter Strick, PhD and Chris Donnelly, PhD but represents a community-wide training program that includes faculty from basic science and clinical departments throughout the University. Prior to application, applicants must select and obtain acceptance from a research mentor chosen from the list of members of the Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh (CNUP) ( https://cnup.pitt.edu/people/core-faculty-members ) who are engaged in NINDS-funded research. Successful applicants must have a PhD in Neuroscience, Biology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Physiology, Bioengineering, or a related field. A list of current and former T32 trainees can be found at: https://neurobio.pitt.edu/t32-trainees .

In order to be eligible for NIH NINDS T32 funding, applicants must be either US Citizens or Permanent Residents.

While preference will be given to junior postdoctoral applicants, more experienced postdoctoral researchers will also be considered, especially if they are: a) working on highly innovative projects; b) working on projects that require extended time and effort for completion; or c) training in new fields or specialties. The application deadline is October 15, 2024.

To apply for T32 support see:  https://www.neurobio.pitt.edu/applying-t32.

Please email the following in PDF format to the Program Administrative Assistant, Melissa Lepore ( [email protected] ): 1) Curriculum vitae. 2) A summary of your research accomplishments and a description of your research plans (2-3 pages). 3) A summary of your relevant coursework (1-2 pages). 4) A statement of your long-term career objectives (1-2 pages) 5) A statement describing the relevance of your background and training to Neurological Disease Research (1-2 pages). 6) A letter of nomination from the faculty sponsor which includes a brief statement of the proposed research project. 7) Three letters of recommendation.

Please contact Melissa Lepore ( [email protected] , 412-648-9538) with any questions about the application process or for further details about the training program.

Application deadline: April 30, 2024 . After initial review of applications, some applicants will be asked to schedule interviews with members of the T32 Executive Faculty Committee.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity, EOE, including disability/vets. EEO/AA/M/F/Vets/Disabled