Research Assistant position at the Center for Translational Neuromedicine

The Division of Neuron-Glia Circuitry (Hirase lab) at the Center for Translational Neuromedicine is seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled research assistant with experience in molecular techniques and/or in vivo rodent physiology. This is an excellent opportunity to gain research experiences in a wide range of techniques before applying for graduate programmes.

The Center for Translational Neuromedicine (CTN) is part of the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, and is located at Panum. CTN focuses on developing new approaches for investigating and treating neurological diseases, primarily using the tools of physiology and imaging coupled with cell and gene therapy. The center comprises modern laboratories and excellent facilities within neuroscience. CTN is a highly ambitious, collaborative research environment which currently has 50 employees and students and is divided into four labs.

For more information: https://ctn.ku.dk/ .

Being part of the Hirase lab offers an opportunity to work in a multi-disciplinary lab focusing on the basic biology of glial cells in the CNS and the role of astrocytes in several neurological diseases, including stroke, and Alzheimer’s Disease.
For more information: https://ctn.ku.dk/research/hirase-lab-division-of-neuron-glia-circuitry/

Job description:
We are seeking highly motivated and technically skilled candidates with a background in cell and molecular biology and/or in vivo rodent (neuro)physiology. The successful applicant will work closely with postdoctoral researchers and PhD students in Hirase lab. The initial contract period is for one year with the possibility of extension. Successful applicants who show good progress, hold a master’s degree, and are eager to pursue a PhD will have a possibility to convert to a 3-year PhD candidature after one year.

Key responsibilities:

(1) Molecular cloning (restriction enzyme or in-fusion)

(2) HEK293 cell culture; transfection; AAV harvesting and purification.

(3) Optical brain imaging experiments data collection from mice (two-photon microscopy and/or head-mounted mini-camera)

Profile of successful candidate:
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic research assistant with the following competencies and experience:

Essential experience and skills:

• Relevant laboratory experience in molecular biology and cell biology (e.g., biochemical purification using ultracentrifuge, cell cultures) and/or,
• Experience in in vivo physiological in rodents and/or,
• Confocal imaging
• FELASA certificate
• Excellent lab book record keeping skills and data file management experience
• Good English communication skills, both oral and written.
• Good time management

Positively considered skills and features:

• Data analysis & programming skills (Matlab, Python, R)
• Knowledge in neuroscience (Bachelor level)
• Optimism and resilience

Place of employment
The place of employment is at Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen. We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in a dynamic and international research environment. Our research facilities include modern laboratories and state-of-the-art equipment.

Terms of employment
The employment is a full-time and fixed-term position for 1 year. Starting date is 15 August 2022 or after agreement.

There is a possibility that this position may convert to a PhD after one year for a 3-year PhD candidature.

The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment are according to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The successful candidate will report to Dr. Hajime Hirase.

Questions
For further information, applicants may contact supervisor Professor Hajime Hirase, [email protected] , or Center Administrator Ann Christensen, [email protected] .

Application procedure
Your application must be submitted electronically by clicking ‘Apply now’ below. The application must include the following documents in PDF format: 

1. Motivated letter of application (max. one page) stating how the candidate’s qualifications fit the project the project. Statements on scientific interest is optional, but will be considered positively

2. CV incl. education, experience, language skills and other skills relevant for the position

3. Certified copy of original Master of Science diploma and transcript of records in the original language, including an authorized English translation if issued in other language than English or Danish. If not completed, a certified/signed copy of a recent transcript of records or a written statement from the institution or supervisor is accepted. As a prerequisite for a PhD fellowship employment, your master’s degree must be equivalent to a Danish master’s degree. We encourage you to read more in the assessment database: https://ufm.dk/en/education/recognition-and-transparency/find-assessments/assessment-database . Please note that we might ask you to obtain an assessment of your education performed by the Ministry of Higher Education and Science

4. Publication list (if possible)

5. A page of your lab book/file would be helpful (optional). Please obtain a permission from your supervisor (molecule names can be crossed out or replaced with XXXX).

6. Contact info for at least one reference. (Name, Affiliation, e-mail.)

Application deadline is 6 June 2022. https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/

Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.