Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Intra-Vital Neuroimaging

Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Intra-Vital Neuroimaging

Wang Lab, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States

Employer Description:

PI: TD Wang, MD,PhD, University of Michigan

The Wang Lab at the University of Michigan is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join a pioneering research program in optical imaging and miniature microscopy. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to an NIH-funded project focused on achieving high-resolution, real-time imaging of neural activity in freely behaving mice. The successful candidate will play a central role in advancing longitudinal in vivo brain imaging using a custom-designed, head-mounted miniature s confocal microscope. This innovative system incorporates a 3-axis scanner and multiplexed fluorescence detection, enabling subcellular resolution and large field-of-view imaging across multiple fluorescent channels. Perform longitudinal in vivo imaging of neural structures in awake, freely moving mice using a fiber-coupled, head-mounted miniature microscope. Implant and maintain cranial imaging windows in transgenic mouse models that express multiple fluorescent proteins (e.g., Bitbow, Brainbow, glioblastoma models).

Responsibilities:

·      Perform in vivo imaging studies using a custom-built miniature confocal microscope to monitor neural activity in mouse brain models.

·      Mount imaging instruments on freely behaving mice and maintain animal health over longitudinal studies.

·      Implant and maintain cranial imaging windows in transgenic mouse models that express multiple fluorescent proteins.

·      Execute and refine imaging protocols to capture high-resolution, multiplexed fluorescence signals across multiple ROIs and imaging planes.

·      Assist in designing and validating optical elements and scan mechanisms, including random access scanning using a microsystems scan mechanism.

·      Collect and analyze real-time 3D volumetric fluorescence imaging data.

·      Collaborate with investigators from neuroscience, engineering, and pathology for multi-disciplinary research goals.

·      Support data analysis pipelines, image registration techniques, and preparation of findings for publication.

Qualifications:

·      PhD (or near completion) in Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field.

·      Hands-on experience in live animal imaging (e.g., confocal, multiphoton, or epifluorescence microscopy).

·      Experience with rodent surgical procedures, including cranial window implantation.

·      Experience with small animal surgery and in vivo imaging techniques.

·      Familiarity with neuroscience models and genetically encoded fluorescent reporters is a plus.

·      Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

·      Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits:

·      Competitive salary and benefits package.

·      Access to cutting-edge research facilities and professional development opportunities.

·      Collaborative and supportive research environment.

Research environment: The University of Michigan is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment, and is an ideal training ground for postdocs who want to further develop their skills in pursuit of a career in academia or industry. Salary will be commensurate with the applicant’s experience and in compliance with NIH guidelines. The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity employer.

The Wang Laboratory is located in the Biomedical Science Research Building (BSRB) on the University of Michigan medical campus. The wet lab space is ~2000 sq. ft., and includes 16 wet benches, desks, and computers. The laboratory is equipped with 4^oC refrigerators, -20^oC and -80^oC freezers, water baths, top loading and analytical balances, orbital shakers, microcentrifuge, high speed refrigerated centrifuge, pH meter, brightfield and fluorescence microscopes, and cell culture facility equipped with two sterile laminar flow hoods and dual chamber CO₂ incubators. The lab is also equipped with a HPLC (Dual injector 2489 Waters breeze system), automatic peptide synthesizer (Protein Technologies), and lyophilizer (Freezone 4.5, Lab Conco Corp.). Core facilities in the BSRB include a tissue laboratory (800 sq ft) that is available for processing tissue specimens (microtome) and performing histology. There is also an imaging laboratory (~250 sq ft) that has an inverted confocal microscope (Zeiss LSM 510) with 3 laser excitation lines (488, 514, and 633 nm), and an automated imaging system for capturing and archiving tissue microarray experiments. A freezer room with automated alarm and self-dialing emergency system is located next to the core lab. It is equipped with 4 Fisher scientific upright -80^oC freezers for the storage of serum and tissue samples. The Center for Molecular Imaging is a state-of-the-art small animal imaging center that provides systems, instruments, and services for performing molecular imaging research.

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, contact information for three references, and a statement of research interests to tdwangmd@gmail.com.

TD Wang, M.D.,Ph.D.

Professor of Medicine, Biomedical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering

H. Marvin Pollard Collegiate Professor of Endoscopy Research

University of Michigan

109 Zina Pitcher Pl. BSRB 1522

Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200

Email: tdwangmd@gmail.com

https://sites.google.com/a/umich.edu/wang_lab