Research Assistant in Neurometabolism

The Furlan lab aims to discover the neuronal circuits regulating food preference, homeostasis, and body weight regulation (Furlan et al., Nat. Neuro, 2022). To do this, we employ transcriptomics, circuit-tracing methods and opto- and chemo- genetics in combination with behavioral and metabolic phenotyping, in the mouse model. We believe that interrogation of these understudied circuits will advance our understanding of how the brain and body achieve important physiological processes and will contribute to the development of novel approaches to treat obesity and metabolic syndrome. Our lab is part of the Neuroscience department in the Biomedicum, a vibrant, highly interactive, internationally recognized center for medical research with outstanding research infrastructure.

The project expands on our previous findings on the identification and functional interrogation of the brain nuclei controlling body weight, in mice. The research assistant will collect tissue, process it for immunohistochemistry, and quantify cells traced from the periphery with semi-automated approaches. The project also includes metabolic phenotyping, bulk sequencing of peripheral tissues, and single-cell sequencing of selected neuronal populations.

Initiative, motivation, and a keen interest in understanding and contributing to the fields of neuroscience and metabolism are an absolute must.

The ideal candidate should:

• Have an academic background in neuroscience
• Be proficient with immunohistochemistry and confocal imaging
• Have prior experience with organ dissection and RNA extraction

The following skills represent a strong plus:

• Experience with metabolic phenotyping
• Familiarity with viral tracing techniques and intracranial stereotaxic surgery
• Proficiency with tissue clearing and whole-mount staining of organs

A creative and inspiring environment with wide-ranging expertise and interests. Karolinska Institutet is one of the world's leading medical universities. Our vision is to pursue the development of knowledge about life and to promote a better health for all. At Karolinska Institutet, we conduct successful medical research and hold the largest range of medical education in Sweden. Karolinska Institutet is also a state university, which entitles you to several good benefits through our collective agreement. And you get to practice freely in our modern wellness facilities, where trained staff are on site.

Location: Solna

neurobiology-of-obesity-alessandro-furlan-group

Welcome to apply at the latest 240426

The application is to be submitted through the Varbi recruitment system.In this recruitment, you will apply with your CV without a personal letter. Instead, you will answer some questions about why you are applying for the job in the application form. 

This is a special fixed term position.