Research Scientist/Engineer 3

Job Description

The Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Scientist/Engineer 3 to join their team. 

As a center of excellence that collaborates with many departments and schools in the University (Division of Psychiatry and Behavior Sciences in the Department of Medicine; School of Pharmacology; Neurobiology and others), the NAPE lab is associated with the Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, located at the University of Washington's Health Science Building. The laboratory projects focus primarily on how neuromodulators (Dopamine, Norepinphrine, Serotonin, opioids) work to modulate circuits in the brain to ultimately, impact behavior.  The laboratory also works at the cutting-edge to develop/engineer novel biological and hardware tools for engaging the brain to study behavior.

Two of NAPE's Principle Investigators, Dr. Michael Bruchas and Dr. Garret Stuber, are key personnel of a large P30 Center Grant, the "University of Washington Center of Excellence in Opioid Addiction Research".  The purpose of the center is to provide shared resources that will enhance efficiency and facilitate collaborative research for the study of how endogenous and exogenous opioid signaling impacts brain circuit function with the goal of understanding opioid addiction mechanisms and developing novel treatments for drug addiction.

The main purpose for the Research Scientist 3 is to provide high level scientific support for two-photon microscopy infrastructure contained within the Center, and to ensure that standard procedures and tasks related to the workflow of the facility are correctly performed. With limited supervision needed, this position will report to Dr. Garret Stuber, with a strongly matrixed relationship to Dr. Michael Bruchas.

This position will be responsible for the development and implementation of data analysis methods to be used on two-photo imaging datasets collected by scientists within the center as well as the development of experimental methodologies related to two-photon imaging. They will assist with management of the Center, training new personnel on the use of current microscopy instrumentation. The candidate is expected to seek out new methodology for data analysis that can be applied to the datasets that are being collected.

Major duties include:

• Two-Photon Imaging experiment methodologies development and data analysis 50%
• Center Management and Training of Personnel on Instruments 40%
• Research and Implementation of Data Analysis Approaches 10%

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES  

Two-Photon Imaging Experiment Methodologies Development and Data Analysis 50%

• Development and implementation of data analysis methods to be used on two-photon imaging datasets collected by scientists within the center
• Write custom codes in Matlab and Python
• Develop statistical and machine learning methodologies to analyze and predict aspects of the collected data
• With the guidance of Drs. Stuber and Bruchas, develop experimental methodologies related to two-photon imaging including, implementation of spatial light modulation, single cell photostimulation/inhibition used in conjunction with in vivo calcium imaging. 
• Assist with transferring new experimental methodologies to other members of the center 

Center Management and Training of Personnel on Instruments 40%

• Consult with students, postdocs, and faculty related to imaging needs for their projects
• Train new personnel on use of the current microscopy instrumentation including, new students and postdocs on the use of available microscopes such as the Olympus RS system and the Bruker 2P+ system. 
• Develop detailed instructions for new users that are editable and available online in a wiki format.
• Assist with the general infrastructure of the center including, maintaining the imaging core space, requesting needed supplies and reagents, keeping lab updated on relevant research articles and other tasks as needed

Research and Implementation of Data Analysis Approaches 10%

• Learning and implementing new approaches for data analysis. 
• Seek out new methodology for data analysis that can be applied to the datasets that are being collected in the center. 
• Consult with statisticians and machine learning experts, attending courses and workshops, and reading the latest research findings in scientific journals.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS  

• Bachelor's Degree in Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Pharmacology or similar field
• 3 years' experience working in research lab, preferably with Health Sciences focus

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.  

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• 3+ years experience with data analysis and programming in Matlab and Python
• Experience with Scikitlearn, Pandas, Numpy, and Statsmodel
• 2+ years experience with in vivo two photon microscopy. 
• 2+ years experience in designing neuroscience behavioral paradigms
• Understands and implements good laboratory techniques
• Experience as first and co-author of research publications, commensurate with level of training and experience.
• Strong communications ability to effectively work with a variety of individuals with varying interpersonal styles.
• Attention to detail
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Professional presentation of materials, self and department in all matters

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS  

• Master's or PhD Degree in Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Pharmacology or similar field

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at or  

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.