A little about us:

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) was established in 2010 to plot a new course in biomedical research that would change the lives of individuals affected with developmental brain disorders. We are one of the only research institutions in the world focused specifically on understanding how genes and the environment influence the way our brains develop that lead to conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, bipolar disorder and related developmental brain disorders. Through our cutting-edge research, answers are emerging and being translated into a robust pipeline of new drugs in development. And, by focusing on genes and their dynamic interplay with the environment, we are getting even closer to the “holy grail” in medical research, the discovery of strategies for primary prevention.

We are a group of dedicated, multidisciplinary and optimistic researchers, working at the cutting edge of science, utilizing state-of-the-art tools to unlock the mystery of the brain and transform the way we approach the development of new treatments, and ultimately cures. LIBD is an independent 501(c)(3) medical research institute located in the Bioscience Park on the campus of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital in Baltimore, MD.

Job Summary: 

A Research Associate position is available to study how neural activity patterns in limbic and reward-related circuits contribute to behaviors that are relevant for neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. Current projects apply techniques using in vivo optical imaging and electrophysiology to better understand how motivated behavior is regulated. More specifically, the project seeks to understand how activity in defined circuits impacts large-scale network activity patterns during touchscreen-based assays of attention and reward-related behavior. 

Overview of Duties: 

• Stereotaxic surgeries for viral transgenesis in rodent models 

• Running rodent behavior tasks in touchscreen apparatus

• Conducting in vivo endoscopic imaging and electrophysiology experiments

• Assisting with analysis of optical imaging and electrophysiology data

Minimum Qualifications Mandatory: 

• BS or MS in Neuroscience, Biology, or a closely related field

• At least 2-3 years of full-time Laboratory research experience

• Excellent organizational and communication skills

• Experience with rodent models of behavior

• Experience with stereotaxic surgeries in rodent models

Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Signal processing analysis MATLAB 

• optogenetic/chemogenetic manipulation 

• Experience with in vivo electrophysiology or EEG analysis

• Experience with miniscope imaging 

• Experience with touchscreen behavior

Physical Requirements for Lab position:

• Remaining in a seated or standing position for extended periods of time;

• Reaching and grasping to manipulate objects with fingers;

• Mobility, including the ability to maneuver around a laboratory setting including the ability to move materials weighing up to 25 pounds;

• Communication skills using the spoken and written word; 

• Having the ability to receive detailed information through oral communication;

• All other physical demands in a standard laboratory environment.

** If accommodations are needed due to pregnancy or a disability, please contact jobs@libd.org

EEOC Statement: At the Lieber Institute, we are committed to a work environment of mutual respect where employment decisions are based on merit. As an equal opportunity employer, the Lieber Institute does not discriminate in employment opportunities on the basis of race, color, religion, color, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy,  marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability (physical or mental),  genetic information, military service, or other non-merit based factors protected by state or federal law or local ordinance, with regard to any position or employment for which the applicant or employee is qualified.