We are recruiting an Associate Research Scientist to study paired brain and spinal cord electrical stimulation to promote recovery of movement following central nervous system injury. The project employs electrophysiology to test hypotheses about how to strengthen sensorimotor integration in the spinal cord. We are also developing and testing a closed loop system for applying spinal cord stimulation based on levels of brain activity from movement intent. The successful applicant will be motivated to understand the systems-level mechanisms of a powerful neuromodulation paradigm developed recently in the laboratory. In addition, the project involves viral manipulation of neural circuits, anatomical tracing imaged with tissue clearing, and novel assays of skilled forelimb function.
Candidates should have strong scientific and postdoctoral experience.
Responsibilities will include running a vibrant and independent research program, performing independent research, help and supervise ongoing research, projects, training and mentoring graduate students, postdocs, technicians, and an active participant in all program Department activities, including participation in grant proposal development and manuscript publishing.
These and many other skills and cutting-edge techniques will be taught to the successful candidate. The scientist will join a dynamic and growing group of 9 investigators in the Movement Recovery Laboratory at Columbia University Medical Center. All projects use activity-based therapies, especially electrical stimulation, to promote neurological recovery after injury.
Compensation includes NIH scale salary, access to institutional housing, and full benefits. A commitment of at least 2 years of full-time work is required; the term may be renewable. Financial incentives and management responsibilities may be offered to strong candidates.
Columbia University is located in New York City, has a world-class faculty in neuroscience and neurology. Abundant learning opportunities include lab meetings, seminar series, journal clubs and university lectures. There are also many opportunities for collaboration with other neuroscientists, laboratories creating new technologies, and expert clinicians.
The successful candidate will have:
A PhD, M.D (or equivalent) in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, or other field related directly to the researchat least two to three years of postdoctoral research experience.The applicant must also be capable of conducting research independently with minimum oversight, and of supervising graduate students and technicians.Experience with neurophysiology techniquesStrong analytical and reasoning skillsStrong writing skills and a track record of publicationsExperience in the following areas is desirable but not essential
Experience in motor or somatosensory systemsSpinal cord and muscle recording and stimulationClosed loop systemsMatlab or similar programming and analysisFamiliarity with brain and spinal cord injuryExperience with activity- or injury-induced neural plasticityColumbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Pay Transparency Disclosure
The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.
Minimum Salary: 31200.00Maximum Salary: 31200.00Salary Unit: Yearly