Description: Research Associate position in the Ahmari laboratory, which investigates potential pathogenic mechanisms and treatment targets in mental illness, specifically OCD and other anxiety disorders. The work focuses on how abnormalities in connections between cortex, striatum, and thalamus lead to abnormal levels of anxiety and repetitive behaviors. Mouse models and optogenetic techniques are used to address these questions.

Duties: Responsibilities include mouse husbandry (organization of the rodent colony, genotyping and breeding rodents for behavioral experiments, collecting tissue samples for experimental analysis), and carrying out behavioral experiments. In addition, the technician will carry out gene and protein expression analysis using immunohistochemical techniques, and will perform other related duties necessary to the functioning of the laboratory or research projects (e.g. preparation of stock solutions, organizational tasks, autoclaving, ordering supplies).

All data obtained must be recorded in detail, including a record of animal husbandry and stocks or other reagents generated. The ideal candidate will also have experience in preparing and presenting reports of data.

Special consideration will be given to candidates with experience in stereotaxic surgery or willingness to be trained in this procedure.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, physics, or neuroscience-related field preferred (or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience).

Training & Experience: At least 1 year of experience with rodent experiments generally, and specifically in the areas of rodent colony maintenance, genotyping, and behavioral experiments. Must show ability to work independently following initial instruction.

Special Requirements: Applicant will be expected to have excellent organizational skills, and be competent with computers and data entry. Macintosh computer experience desired. The ideal candidate will be able to work on a flexible schedule, including some weekends and evenings as necessary.

Please send CV to Susanne Ahmari (sahmari@pitt.edu)

About Susanne Ahmari, MD, PhD
The Ahmari Laboratory at the University of Pittsburgh uses advanced techniques for the analysis and manipulation of neural circuits in order to discover the molecular, cellular, and circuit abnormalities underlying compulsive behaviors and anxiety disorders. This serves as a platform to investigate the mechanisms underlying onset, persistence, and successful treatment of perseverative and compulsi...ve behaviors. Dr. Ahmari is an Assistant Professor in Psychiatry and the Center for Neuroscience at University of Pittsburgh, and is the Director of the Translational OCD Laboratory, a multidisciplinary translational research program to study OCD and related disorders. Her laboratory is currently funded by multiple grants and awards, including a Burroughs Wellcome Career Award, MQ Fellows Award, NARSAD Young Investigator Award, and NIMH BRAINS Award.