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How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Job Summary

Please note: This position is term-limited to 1 year.

The laboratory of Peng Li at the Life Sciences Institute is looking for a Research Investigator to lead a project studying the neural regulation of breathing in various physiological and behavioral states. The primary objectives include in vivo recording of breathing control neurons and their optogenetic and chemogenetic manipulation in freely moving mice. Additionally, viral circuit tracing will be employed to examine inputs to these neurons. We are looking for extensive expertise and research experience in optogenetics and chemogenetics, in vivo calcium imaging and neural recording, neural anatomy, rodent survival surgeries, confocal microscopy, and physiological recording. Beyond conducting experiments, the individual will oversee research activities performed by students and research technicians. The individual will report directly to Dr. Peng Li and will work full-time onsite.
 

Mission Statement

The Life Sciences Institute explores biological processes, structures, and functions at the finest scale to create impact on a global scale. With a diverse community of inquisitive minds and exceptional tools, we are a catalyst for breakthrough discoveries.

For more information on the Li laboratory: https://www.lsi.umich.edu/science/our-labs/li-lab
 

Responsibilities*

Experimental responsibilities will include:

Collaborate with others to design experimentsUtilize advanced neurogenetic techniques, including optogenetics and chemogeneticsPerform in vivo calcium recording and imaging in freely behaving rodentsConduct survival rodent surgeries, including AAV injection, fiber optic implantation, and EEG/EMG recordingConduct data analysis on breathing and electrophysiological recordingPerform tissue processing, immunostaining, and confocal imagingManage the transgenic mouse colonyTroubleshoot and resolve experimental challenges as they arise
 

Non-experimental responsibilities will include:

Provide consultation and advice to lab members in areas of expertiseTrain lab members in essential laboratory techniquesMaintain clear and accurate laboratory notebooksDocument experiments in detail to ensure reproducibilityAdhere to laboratory best practices for safety and qualityAssist in project managementAssist PI in preparing manuscripts and grantsMaintain stock reagents in the lab, including AAV stocksAssist in maintaining shared lab responsibilities
 Required Qualifications*

Required Qualifications:

Ph.D. in neuroscience, neurobiology, physiology, or related disciplineMinimum 3 years of postdoctoral experienceMinimum 5 years of experience in rodent surgeries, including stereotactic injection, 
  fiber optic implantation, EEG/EMG probe implantation, rodent behavioral testsMinimum 3 years of experience using in vivo calcium imaging and recordingMinimum 3 years of experience managing transgenic mouse colonyMinimum 3 years of experience mentoring students and research staffStrong publication record in relevant workPrior experience working in a collaborative environment
 Desired Qualifications*Minimum 2 years of experience in electrophysiologyMinimum 2 years of experience in respiratory physiology
 Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Additional Information

Benefits at the University of Michigan

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributionsMany choices for comprehensive health insuranceDental and Vision InsuranceLife insuranceLong-term disability coverageFlexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expensesMaternity and Parental LeaveBackground Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

All applications for this position must be received by 11:59pm on February 27th, 2025.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.