Research Specialist, Senior (CIBS- Center for Innovation in Brain Science)

The laboratory of Dr. Fei Yin (Laboratory of Neurometabolism and Neuroinflammation) in the Department of Pharmacology and the Center for Innovation in Brain Science (CIBS) is currently seeking a research scientist to work on research projects related to mitochondrial dysfunction, lipid metabolism and neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. Ongoing research in the Yin lab focuses on investigating the cell type-specific role of mitochondria and mitochondrion-derived signals in the onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease, their interaction with peripheral metabolic organs, as well as the development of novel therapeutics by targeting these pathways. The successful candidate should have strong background and demonstrated research experience in the areas of neuroscience, molecular and cell biology, and/or endocrinology, be able to perform research independently and collaboratively, and be comfortable and efficient in a fast-paced and growing research environment.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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• Plan, design, manage, and carry out innovative research projects related to neurodegenerative diseases utilizing strong background and in-depth expertise in the areas of neuroscience and molecular biology
• Perform experiments utilizing sophisticated molecular, genetic, cellular and imaging technologies in both rodent and cell models. Key techniques include immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry, rodent brain dissection and surgery, virus-mediated gene delivery into the brain, preparation of primary brain cell culture, and comprehensive metabolic characterization of rodent brain tissues and brain derived cells.
• Analyze research data and provide interpretations using biostatistic tools and software.
• Write manuscript for peer-reviewed publication and contribute to research grant applications, including proposal writing.
• Present research findings at national and international scientific conferences.
• Share supervisory responsibility for graduate and undergraduate students including training and day-to-day project oversight.
• Share responsibility for general laboratory management and daily operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Working knowledge neuroscience and molecular biology.
• Strong rodent-related knowledge, including animal model development and maintenance, rodent surgeries and treatment, and behavioral and biochemical analyses of rodent models.
• Knowledge of the design, modification and construction of plasmids, vectors and viral deliveries for genetic manipulations in rodent and cell models.
• Primary cell culture, and other general cellular and molecular biology techniques.

• Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience or Bachelor of Science in Cognitive Neuroscience.
• 5 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, Neuroscience or related field.
• Demonstrated ability to independently prepared technical reports, graphics and manuscripts.
• Demonstrated experience in preparing extramural grant applications.
• Demonstrated productivity with publications in related field.
• Specialized expertise in the mechanism and therapeutic development for brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases, in particular, metabolic syndrome.
• Deep understanding of biochemical concepts and modern biology, including mitochondrial dysfunction, cognitive disorder, and aging.