Research Assistant

The Xu Lab is seeking a Postbaccalaureate Research Associate to continue an ongoing research project investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying experience-dependent synaptic plasticity, with a focus on the neurogranin/PP2B/Grin2A phosphorylation axis and its role in NMDA receptor kinetics and long-term potentiation (LTP).

Key Responsibilities

Independently design and conduct experiments using whole-cell voltage patch-clamp electrophysiology, Western blot, cell culture, molecular cloning, and immunohistochemistry
Maintain and operate a custom hippocampal neuron–HEK293 co-culture and split-fluorophore synapse reconstitution system for measuring NMDA receptor current kinetics in a genetically defined background
Execute lentivirus-mediated molecular replacement experiments to test the sufficiency of Grin2A hypophosphorylation for LTP impairment
Analyze electrophysiological and imaging data using tools such as GraphPad/Prism, MATLAB, and Igor Pro
Prepare data, figures, and text contributing to a first-author conference abstract/presentation and eventual manuscript
Maintain detailed and organized laboratory records, protocols, and data files
Participate in weekly lab meetings and contribute to experimental design discussions
Mentor and train junior undergraduate researchers in relevant techniques

Required Qualifications

B.S. in Neuroscience or a related field (completed), with departmental honors
Demonstrated independent experience with whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology and Western blotting
Prior experience in the Xu Lab or with the specific co-culture/reconstitution system used in this research program
Strong quantitative data analysis skills (e.g., GraphPad/Prism, MATLAB)
Strong scientific writing and oral presentation skills
Ability to work independently, troubleshoot complex experimental systems, and manage experimental timelines

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with molecular cloning and construct design
Experience with lentivirus-based approaches
Prior mentorship or teaching experience (e.g., undergraduate TA roles)
Programming experience (MATLAB, Python) for data analysis

*!

The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.

Job Details
Job Description: All Temps, Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh
Department: Neuroscience
Campus: Pittsburgh
Minimum Education Level Required: Bachelor's Degree
Minimum Years of Experience Required: 1
Average number of working hours per week for this assignment: 37.5
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Is there a potential this assignment will result in a regular Staff position?: No
Work Arrangement: On-Campus: Teams that work on campus, in an office, or in a lab.
Requested Pay Rate: 15.00
Visa Sponsorship Provided: No
Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check
Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable
Required Documents: Resume
Optional Documents: Not Applicable