The Dickerson lab at the Princeton Neuroscience Institute is looking for a motivated full-time research assistant. Research in the Dickerson lab is at the interface of neurobiology, biomechanics, and behavior and seeks to understand how mechanosensory input structures locomotor output. The lab studies the flight behavior of the fruit fly, Drosophila, combining the powerful genetic tools available for labeling and manipulating neural circuits with cutting-edge imaging in awake, behaving animals (https://dickersonlab.princeton.edu/).
The successful applicant will be an energetic, self-directed learner with strong organizational skills and a keen interest in the lab's research. The position provides an excellent opportunity to further develop research skills in fly genetics and molecular biology, and to learn about the neuroscience of animal behavior. This is a one-year position with the possibility of renewal.
experimental data collection and analysis through the use of:
- 2-photon imaging in the brain
- optogenetics
- muscle electrophysiology
all in behaving animals
experimental rig development:
- construction of a rotating platform that allows for simultaneous imaging of calcium signals using fluorescent markers as well as tracking wing motion in real-time
- construction of a setup to capture high-speed video of freely flying flies in three dimensions and extract body and wing kinematics
fly husbandry and maintenance of fly lines
- running genetic screens
Essential Qualifications:
- bachelor's degree and postbac research experience in Neuroscience, Physics, Engineering, or related field
- proficiency in Programming
- high-speed video acquisition and analysis
- experimental apparatus construction
Preferred Qualifications:
- experience with tethered and free flight behavioral experiments, molecular techniques common in Drosophila, and single or multiphoton imaging are highly advantageous.
- masters degree in Neuroscience, Physics, Engineering, or related field
This position is subject to the University's background check policy.
Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS