POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLAR

University of Iowa Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology is seeking a postdoctoral researcher who will be responsible for conducting research studying traumatic brain injury and epilepsy in animal models. The position is within the Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology. The postdoctoral researcher will be under the supervision of Dr. Alex Bassuk.

The focus of the project will be to understand the fundamental neurobiological processes leading to epilepsy and its cognitive and emotional comorbidities. Anatomic, biochemical and molecular techniques will be used to characterize and modulate activity-dependent injury and cell death. Major goals and objectives of the research includes: to study how alterations in cellular and molecular mechanisms mediate neuroinflammation, cell death and hippocampal/cortical circuit dysfunction in epilepsy; investigate the mechanisms through which the intervention compounds affords neuroprotection and seizure reduction in rodent models of epilepsy; identify therapeutic targets within cellular signaling pathways for attenuating or reversing epileptogenesis.

• Ph.D is required, preferably in the neurosciences.

• Demonstrated knowledge of microscopy techniques and image usage.


• Demonstrated experience with transgenic and genetically engineered mice


• Knowledge of basic electrophysiology, various proteomic and genomic techniques, and biochemical assays.


• Ability to execute and follow-through to completion and documentation.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.


• Proficiency with computer programs – specifically MS Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint).


• Maintaining excellent lab notes and records.


• Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as a member of a team and display initiative in anticipating problems and resolving problems.


• Ability to multitask effectively, prioritize multiple projects.

• Demonstrated dxperience with electrophysiology and/or two-photon imaging. 


• Demonstrated experience with programming.


• Demonstrated experience using ImageJ, Matlab and/or IgorPro.

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