Postdoctoral Associate

The University of Pittsburgh Ophthalmology Department seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to carry out non-human primate research.

What is the stuff of dreams, visual imagination, hallucinations, and mental imagery? Our lab studies how vision is generated within the brain- with or without input from the eyes. We use electrophysiology in non-human primates to understand visual processing in everyday life, and electrically stimulate visual areas to induce artificial perception, e.g. following blindness. Our chronically implanted neuroprostheses, comprised of >1000 electrodes, allow us to observe and modulate population-wide neuronal activity with high spatial and temporal resolution, in vivo.

The University of Pittsburgh is a world-leading institution in brain-machine interfaces, and our lab is based at the newly opened Mercy Pavilion, housing researchers and clinicians across the fields of ophthalmology, motor and somatosensory rehabilitation, and hearing. Our lab has strong clinical and industry partnerships, facilitating both basic and translational scientific research. More information about the lab can be found here: https://ophthalmology.pitt.edu/people/xing-chen-phd

Key responsibilities: Working with non-human primates and performing scientific research.

The incumbent will be responsible for tasks related to the execution and analysis of lab research. Tasks could include but are not limited to, performing laboratory procedures, developing materials, managing data collection, data input, evaluation and analysis, writing reports and articles, giving presentations, and participating in the design and planning of tasks and experiments.

Qualifications:  

The ideal candidate would have a PhD in a related field (e.g. neuroscience, bioengineering, medicine). Experience working with animals and electrophysiological techniques is preferred, although all necessary training will be provided. Programming experience (e.g. in Matlab, Python, and/or C++) and a track record of publication are required. Strong communication, project management, and interpersonal skills are essential.

Essential functions:

To perform the functions of the position, the employee must be able to work with monkeys (typically weighing 10-12 kg as an adult, but possibly >15 kg for large individuals). This includes being able to: guide a monkey from its cage into a monkey chair; operate computer and lab equipment and software; carry out behavioral training and data collection; and work with equipment in racks and shelves up to 8 feet high.

The employee must be able to focus on tasks for many hours at a time, with great attention to detail, and work at a computer station for multiple hours at a time, on a daily basis. The employee must be able to work with minimal to no supervision after the initial training period. The employee must be able to move freely within relatively small spaces (between equipment, rows of animal cages, kneeling on the ground for brief periods, etc).

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.