Specialist in snRNA-seq/smFISH - Schumann Lab

The Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy at the University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, seeks to hire one full time employee as a Full Specialist in Dr. Cynthia's Schumann's lab. The incumbent will be involved in interdisciplinary studies focusing on questions in human and nonhuman primate neurodevelopment.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DESIGNATED AREAS OF EXPERTISE

The position of Specialist has a narrow focus in a specialized area and provides technical or specialized expertise in single nucleus RNA-sequencing [snRNA-seq] and single molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization [smFISH] with human and non-human primate brain tissue in the planning and execution of a research project. The Specialist stays apprised of emerging issues and problems and maintains technical competence in the designated area(s) of specialization. Within this defined area and when appropriate, the Specialist is expected to provide leadership, facilitate teamwork and develop collaborative relationships with colleagues, and to supply input into the planning of research and educational programs. Normally, Specialists do not have Principal Investigator (PI) status but may obtain permission by exception and/or collaborate with a PI in preparing research proposals for extramural funding. The Specialist is evaluated for merit and promotion using three basic criteria outlined below.

The incumbent will work under the supervision of Dr. Cynthia Schumann and work cooperatively and collegially in a diverse environment.

1. RESEARCH (90% EFFORT)

A) The incumbent will collaborate with other research personnel affiliated with research activities involving molecular and cellular changes in the brain in neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Specific duties may include the following:

* Effectively plan and execute snRNA-seq and smFISH research projects involving human and non-human primate brain tissue with careful consideration of tissue quality, accurate anatomical sampling, and maximizing use of tissue across projects.

* Effectively plan and execute appropriate secondary methods for scientific rigor of the above. This includes histological stains (e.g., immunofluorescence) and molecular assays (e.g., Luminex based multiplex bead assays such as QuantiGene).

* Coordinate all tissue sampling efforts.

* Provide technical guidance to graduate students, project scientists, and other researchers regarding snRNA-seq, smFISH, and histological assays.

* Participate in publications as an author.

* Grant support. The candidate will assist in writing proposals and providing preliminary data for funding.

* The candidate will actively disseminate information (beyond the boundaries of the campus) through informal instruction, presentations, or other means stemming from the Specialist's research accomplishments.

* Other evidence of recognized expertise may include formal documentation of intellectual effort and participation in publishable research activities, first authorship on publications/patents, presentation of research at regional/national meetings, invitations to review grant proposals and/ or journal articles, invitations to participate in research projects, and/or service on advisory panels.

B) Serve as a research coordinator for snRNA-seq, smFISH, fluorescence microscopy, and histology projects conducted by PIs in the laboratory and/or department, as resources permit. Responsible for ensuring uninterrupted communication between individual laboratories, data management and preparation of reports tailored to meet the needs of the requesting individual.

2. PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AND ACTIVITY (5% EFFORT)

* The appointee will be expected to actively participate appropriate professional/technical societies or groups and other educational and research organizations.

* Review research proposals, journal manuscripts, and publications related to area of expertise.

3. UNIVERSITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE (5% EFFORT)

* They will be expected to participate and contribute to laboratory and group meetings, and other activities, as applicable.

* They will also be expected to participate in committees within the department, school, campus, and other University entities, as appropriate.

This recruitment is conducted at the full rank. A reasonable estimate for this position will be $90,000-$110,300/year.

TO APPLY:

To apply, please go to the following link: JPF07092 . This position will remain open until filled.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

* Full Specialist candidates must possess an MS degree in neuroscience or related medical field and 6 or more years of research experience.

* Minimum 6 years of research experience in managing laboratory projects involving human and non-human primate brain tissue.

* Established proficiency with all aspects of projects involving snRNA-seq and smFISH in brain tissue. This includes protocol development, project management, imaging, data acquisition, and data analysis.

* Must have extensive experience with handling human and non-human primate brain tissue. This includes knowing a variety of fixation methods, sample collection approaches, sectioning at cryostats and freezing microtomes, and basic histological techniques.

* Experience with utilizing molecular techniques such as ELISA and Luminex-based bead assays on human and non-human primate brain tissue.

* Experience with fluorescence microscopy techniques on human and non-human primate brain tissue.

* Experience developing and leading projects.

* Evidence of academic accomplishment such as refereed journal papers and conference presentations.

* Experience with grant development. This includes piloting new techniques, providing preliminary data, and application preparation.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

* Broad experience with molecular techniques involving proteins, nucleic acid, and antibodies.

* Knowledge of array tomography and other synaptic evaluation techniques.

• 3-5 required (contact information only)

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
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