Responsibilities

General Purpose (See percentage categories below)

Responsible for carrying out experiments with minimal supervision related to 3-D rendering of anatomical pathways and circuits in the brain, specifically the cortical and basal ganglia system. This requires performance of multiple techniques including scanning microscope slides, adjusting images, and analyzing data using complex software programs. Other tasks include some laboratory skills such as, preparing microscope slides for tissue and processing the tissue for immunohistochemistry. Assist with the supervision and training of lab personnel and in the management of laboratory supplies and equipment upkeep. Manage basic laboratory data databases, including, but not limited to Endnote, and Filemaker.

Advanced knowledge of basic biology and computer skills are required. Willingness to work with animal tissue and the ability to work in a laboratory team environment with a diverse group of personnel is essential.

Typical Assignments and Responsibilities (See percentage categories below)

In accordance with broadly outlined objectives, requirements and approaches, plans and conducts technical procedures, non-routine and complex in nature. Sets up and operates state-of-the-art equipment or software. With latitude for modifying methods and techniques, records, computers, and analyzes data, prepares reports, presents data at laboratory meetings, and makes recommendations. Will direct and supervise undergraduate research assistants recruited to help with the organization and management of 3-D brain models. Has advanced working knowledge of computers, scientific software, IMOD, Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.

Specific Responsibilities – Essential Tasks

25% Develop 3-D brain atlas models. Work in an independent manner with minimal supervision. Design, plan and develop the atlas models that are developed to incorporate new data. This involves selecting, determining the correct orientation for each section, and building the model. Requires operation of complex computer programs, including Photoshop, IMOD, and illustrator. Make recommendations for future atlas models, and modify models as needed. Analyze and to present findings to PI and/or in laboratory meetings.

20% Prepare sections for each model. Work in an independent manner with minimal supervision. Download MRI images from the MRI facility and convert each image into a separate tiff file. Prepare histological sections to be imaged and convert each image into a separate tiff file. Align histological images with MRI images based on anatomical landmarks. Import information into large databases. May require occasional wet lab bench work. This includes processing tissue for immunohistochemistry, mounting and cover slipping microscope slides.

20% Develop models from new experiments. Work in an independent manner with minimal supervision. Design, plan models from new experiments to determine the organization of specific pathways and terminal fields from different cortical areas. Use IMOD to import new data into the atlas models. Use Photoshop to create images and to prepare documents to be given to the PI. Make recommendations for future experiments, and modify experiments as needed. Analyze and present findings to PI and/or in laboratory meetings.

20% Development of Probabilistic maps. Perform analysis using a combination of software programs to determine the probability of the projection trajectory and terminal field from any given cortical region. Use multiple programs to design experiments and analyze data. Use Excel graph results and prepare documents to be given to the PI. Make recommendations for additional analyses, and modify as needed. Analyze and to present findings to PI and/or in laboratory meetings.

15% General database maintenance. Train other laboratory workers, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows in relevant computer techniques and equipment use. Provide support and technical assistance on experimental problems that may arise during the course of their experiments. Order supplies related to computer analysis. Maintain functionality of lab databases, including injection sites, and references. Perform literature searches, assist with grant and manuscript preparation, and make scientific contributions to research projects.

Other miscellaneous laboratory-related duties assigned as required for research projects.

Non-Essential Tasks:

Not applicable

Position Requirements:

Education/Experience (minimum required):

• B.A. or B.S. degree in appropriate discipline preferred. Minimum requirements include an Associate’s degree and at least 4 years of experience.

• Advanced computer skills are required. This includes Microsoft Office, Photoshop, Illustrator, Endnote, Filemaker, and IMOD.

• Must be able to work independently and to listen to, convey, and exchange information with other laboratory personnel.

• Ability to perform experiments with precision and the ability to perform mathematical calculations.

• Ability to perform some mathematical calculations.

• The ability to communicate effectively, follow instructions exactly, and record information accurately.

• Must have excellent interpersonal skills, including written communication.

• This position entails prolonged periods of sitting and computer work.

CONTACTS:

Weekly interactions with Principal Investigator and daily interactions with Research Assistant Professor supervisor, as well as other administrative and laboratory staff.

* License/Certification Required:

None

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion to advance the University’s mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis oAf age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other status protected by law. This commitment extends to the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates from underrepresented populations, veterans, and persons with disabilities consistent with these values and government contractor Affirmative Action obligations.

How To Apply

All applicants must apply online.

EOE Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled

Pay Range

Pay Range: $ 18.89 - $ 26.44 Hourly

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job’s compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

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Location: School of Medicine & Dentistry
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
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