Associate Research Scientist - job 5 of 6

Position Description

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.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will have:

• A PhD, M.D (or equivalent) in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, or other field related directly to the research
• at 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 techniques
• Strong analytical and reasoning skills
• Strong writing skills and a track record of publications

Experience in the following areas is desirable but not essential

• Experience in motor or somatosensory systems
• Spinal cord and muscle recording and stimulation
• Closed loop systems
• Matlab or similar programming and analysis
• Familiarity with brain and spinal cord injury
• Experience with activity- or injury-induced neural plasticity

Application Instructions

Email your CV and cover letter (or inquiries) to Jason B. Carmel, MD, PhD at jbc28@cumc.columbia.edu. Please include “Postdoc Position” in the subject line.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $70,150.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Ability to commute/relocate:

• New York, NY 10032: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person