Postdoctoral Research Associate Opportunities
About the Role
A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available in the Chen Ultrasound Lab at Washington University in St. Louis (https://chenultrasoundlab.wustl.edu). This position is funded by the NIH Pioneer Award to develop a groundbreaking ultrasound-induced artificial hibernation technique based on our recent discovery that ultrasound stimulation of hypothalamic neurons can safely, noninvasively, and reversibly lower metabolism and body temperature in mice and rats.
What You Will Be Doing
You will join a highly interdisciplinary team that integrates expertise in ultrasound engineering, systems neuroscience, physiology, molecular biology, brain functional imaging, and behavioral analysis. Your work will contribute to answering three critical questions:
- What are the molecular, cellular, neural circuit, and systemic mechanisms underlying ultrasound-induced artificial hibernation?
- How effective is ultrasound-induced artificial hibernation in treating diseases?
- Can this technique be translated to non-human primates, paving the way for human applications?
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking candidates with a creative and open mindset, ready to challenge conventional thinking and take bold research risks. Ideal candidates will thrive in a multidisciplinary team, show leadership in driving their projects, and possess a PhD in fields such as therapeutic ultrasound, ultrasound devices, ultrasound imaging, neuroscience, metabolism, or non-human primate research.
What We Offer
You will receive mentorship and career development support from Dr. Chen, a recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award from Washington University’s Office of Postdoctoral Affairs. You will collaborate with experts across fields, including engineering, neuroscience, neurology, neurosurgery, and molecular biology. Additionally, you will work in the state-of-the-art, 11-floor Neuroscience Research Building on campus—the largest of its kind in the U.S.
Further Information
This is a full-time position for 12 months initially, with the potential for extension. The salary is based on NIH guidelines, with a minimum of $61,008 per year.
To apply, please send your CV/resume to Dr. Hong Chen at hongchen@wustl.edu.
Research Technician Opportunities
Position Summary
The Chen Ultrasound Lab at Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, is seeking a Research Technician II. The Chen Ultrasound Lab integrates breakthroughs in neuroscience and ultrasonics to develop noninvasive ultrasound technologies that deepen our understanding of brain function and transform the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases. This position assists with the technical aspects of studies and experiments, including documentation and preparation of research materials.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
· Assists with research studies, experiments, and assays, including collection of data, preparation of solutions, and set-up and maintenance of equipment.
· Assists with mouse studies, including maintenance of mouse inventory, monitoring of experimental animals, minor surgical procedures, collecting and processing tissue and fluid samples.
· Assists with other experiments, including, but not limited to, animal brain sectioning, fluorescence imaging of animal brain slices, bioluminescent imaging and magnetic resonance imaging of tumor-bearded mice, and image post-processing and analysis.
· Performs data entry and maintains data files on research.
· Prepare and Maintain Reagent Stocks and Chemicals.
· Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory conditions.
· Ensures lab conditions and equipment are properly cleaned and maintained in accordance with established procedures.
· Assists with general lab maintenance and cleaning.
· Performs other duties as assigned.
Preferred Qualifications
· Demonstrated ability to work independently and communicate with laboratory staff and investigators.
· Ability to maintain complete and organized records/reports.
· Willing and able to learn new techniques as required.
· Working knowledge of computer software and general lab equipment.
To apply, please send your CV/resume to Dr. Hong Chen at hongchen@wustl.edu.
Graduate Student Opportunities
Students interested in pursuing Ph.D. degrees in our lab are encouraged to contact Prof. Hong Chen at hongchen@wustl.edu.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities
Undergraduates interested in our lab are welcome throughout the year. Please send an email to hongchen@wustl.edu