Ph.D.

Minimum of 3-4 years experience with rodent handling, conducting literature searches, data analyses, and preparation of scientific manuscripts and grant applications.

None

Sitting, standing, working on computer for long periods of time

Monday – Friday 8a-5p, some weekends required

One project will involve performing whole cell patch clamp electrophysiology as well standard rodent models of drug addiction. The other project will involve examination of astrocyte morphometry and synaptic colocalization. These positions are available in the laboratory of Dr. Cassandra Gipson. The Gipson laboratory is interested in neurobiological underpinnings of nicotine relapse and addiction, as well as cocaine/opioid and nicotine/opioid co-use. More specifically, the lab focuses on examination of neuroimmune mechanisms that contribute to aberrant glutamate signaling during motivated drug seeking. As well, the lab is focused on the relationship between nicotine and ovarian hormones as well as contraceptive estrogen.

One project will involve performing whole cell patch clamp electrophysiology as well standard rodent models of drug addiction. The other project will involve examination of astrocyte morphometry and synaptic colocalization. These positions are available in the laboratory of Dr. Cassandra Gipson. The Gipson laboratory is interested in neurobiological underpinnings of nicotine relapse and addiction, as well as cocaine/opioid and nicotine/opioid co-use. More specifically, the lab focuses on examination of neuroimmune mechanisms that contribute to aberrant glutamate signaling during motivated drug seeking. As well, the lab is focused on the relationship between nicotine and ovarian hormones as well as contraceptive estrogen.

The chosen candidates will have the opportunity to utilize other neuroscience and behavioral techniques such as biosensors, chemogenetics, behavioral economics, and choice procedures. The chosen candidates will also be required to develop fellowship grant applications and will be required to attend 1-2 scientific conferences per year. Ongoing collaborations exist with researchers within the Department of Psychology, Behavioral Science, and with other departments across campus, and it is anticipated that the successful candidate will join in such collaborations.

Salary is commensurate with years of postdoctoral experience in accordance with NIH guidelines set for NRSA stipends (https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-20-070.html)”

Strong neuroscience background with proven publication records.

Experience with behavioral testing in rodent models of drug addiction, transgenic animals, chemogenetics, optogenetics, or dendritic spine morphology analysis.

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