The Spencer Lab is seeking a researcher to join our group working on understanding the neural mechanisms underpinning the development at substance use disorders and relapse. We study neuroplasticity, neurochemistry, and behavior associated with addiction as a relapse-remitting brain disorder. 
 

We are a part of the Department of Pharmacology within the Medical School at the University of Minnesota and a part of the Medical Discovery Team on Addiction (MDTA), a multi-departmental initiative that aims to advance research leading to innovative treatments for addiction. 

Responsibilities:

50% Laboratory Management
⢠Write or modify IACUC, IRB, and IBC protocols
⢠Assist with laboratory organization and enforce adherence to regulatory requirements
⢠Interact, communicate, and coordinate with various stakeholders, including UMN cores and collaborators, to efficiently complete research projects
⢠Maintain lab supplies
⢠Lab waste management procedures

25% Independent Research
⢠Conduct in vitro and in vivo experiments focusing on the neurocircuitry underpinning substance use disorders in rodent models
⢠Independently design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments from start to finish, optimizing as necessary

25% Research Support
⢠Propose alternative methods, modify existing procedures, and/or develop new protocols to achieve research objectives
⢠Assist in training undergraduate and graduate students on experimental techniques and research methodologies
⢠Serve as an expert resource for lab members, external collaborators, and the broader scientific community
⢠Prepare manuscripts and figures for publication

 

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS in Experimental Psychology, Neuroscience, Pharmacology or related discipline and at least 5 years of experience in behavioral pharmacology research or a combination of education and experience to equal 9 years.
• Extensive experience with designing, implementing and conducting experiments using rodent behavioral models.
• Hands on experience with both mouse and rat models
• Exemplary understanding of statistical analysis and ability to interpret outputs
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Experience communicating results and concepts with an audience with a wide background such as neuroscientists, pharmacologists, and laboratory scientists
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Highly motivated, ability to identify potential problems and develop solutions.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever-changing needs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency in performing aseptic surgery on rodents
• Experience with basic laboratory techniques
• Excellent planning, organization and execution skills.
• Positive attitude and good interpersonal skills.
• Strong stance on mentorship and collaboration with aspiring researchers 
• Proficiency in statistical and graphical software such as SPSS, Graphpad, etc.
• Ability to prepare manuscripts for presentation and publication.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct experiments independently, troubleshoot complex technical challenges, and drive scientific projects to successful completion with minimal supervision.

About University of Minnesota Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.

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