Western University of Health Sciences - Pomona, CA

To study the mechanisms underlying synaptic plasticity in adult hippocampus and to investigate potential mechanisms involved in an animal model of Angelman Syndrome. The Post-doctoral Researcher is expected to do research on the role of calpain in BDNF-mediated regulation of local protein synthesis in long-term potentiation, and in their potential alterations in hippocampus from Ube3a mutant mice. The research will also focus on use of ampakines to stimulate BDNF expression and BDNF-induced stimulation of local protein synthesis.

Essential Job Functions
1. Organize and perform biochemical experiments on hippocampal slices and cell cultures as detailed in Dr. Baudry's and Dr. Bi's NIH proposal.

2. Prepare neuronal cultures from embryonic mouse or rat brain, and prepare acute hippocampal slices for biochemical experiments.

3. Analyze results via statistical methods.

4. Help the Principal Investigators to write manuscripts.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Individual must possess the knowledge, as well as the following skills and abilities or be able to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of skills and abilities.

1. Must possess good English skills and have the ability to communicate effectively with others in person, via telephone, Internet/Intranet and e-mail programs.

2. Ability to effectively interact with administration, faculty, staff, and students.

Required Qualifications
1. Education: Ph.D. and/or M.D. in neurobiology, neuroscience, molecular biology, biochemistry and/or related areas.

2. Experience: Prior experience with immunohistochemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, tissue culture, transgenic techniques, ELISA and animal behavior.