Manager of the Electrophysiology Support Unit

The Human Technopole Foundation is looking for the Manager of the Electrophysiology Support Unit.

The successful candidate will report directly to the Head of the Centre for Neurogenomics.

S/he will be responsible for developing, maintaining and constantly evolving a research support unit performing state of the art electrophysiological recordings and related functional assays in animal models (both in vivo and ex-vivo), human ex-vivo models, in vitro brain organoids, xenografted brain organoids and iPSC-derived neurons.

Strong emphasis will be put on the interaction of functional characterization of neuronal activity with matched genomics and imaging profiling, establishing integrated flows with the Genomics and Light Imaging Facilities.

S/he will also be expected to contribute to the development of new protocols and the rapid standardization/implementation of new approaches such as 3DMEA, mesh nanoelectronics devices, patch-seq, and in situ electro-sequencing 3D. New methodologies are expected to derive from the collaborative interactions within the Centre for Neurogenomics and other groups at HT or in collaborating institutions.

Key tasks and responsibilities

The Manager of the Electrophysiology Support Unit, will:

  • Be responsible for implementing priorities and resource planning for the Unit.
  • Help select, lead and mentor Unit staff, including first-line computational support.
  • Supervise sample preparation as well as data collection and evaluation support.
  • Cooperate with other groups to implement novel technologies.
  • Ensure the Electrophysiology research support is world-class.
  • Manage funding and access charges with periodic review to ensure sustainability and competitiveness.
  • Constantly optimize protocols and maximize cost-effectiveness.
  • Closely follow technological developments that could benefit the Unit.
  • Interact with the manufacturers and engineers of the relevant equipment.
  • Organise introductions and assistance for new users of the Unit.
  • Participate actively in the overall development of HT core facilities.
  • report regularly on progress to the Neurogenomics user group and its Head.
  • Help design and advise IT services to meet Unit and user requirements.
  • Build effective links and collaborations within HT.
  • Develop links with other national and international Electrophysiology Units/labs
  • Support third-party fundraising where possible.

Job requirements

+5 years of hands-on experience of Electrophysiology with strong focus on neuroscience is a prerequisite.

  • PhD or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject, e.g. neuroscience, cell biology, cell physiology, neurophysiology, biophysics.
  • Previous experience in equivalent managerial electrophysiology projects.
  • Documented experience in operating and developing electrophysiology protocols e.g. patch-clamp recordings, in vivo extracellular recordings, high-throughput multielectrode recordings. Calcium imaging is a plus.
  • Experience in sample preparation, including primary cell cultures, tissue slices and organotypic cultures from animal models (mouse, rat) as well as from human ex vivo and iPSC derived organoids and 2D neurons.
  • Ability to set up and coordinate data analysis of spike2, matlab, and other related software.
  • Experience with integration approaches combining electrophysiology and genomics profiling.
  • Excellent laboratory skills and troubleshooting.
  • Ability to interact effectively with other teams and work synergistically to drive projects forward.
  • Meticulous organization.
  • Fluency in English – HT is an international research institute.
  • Proven leadership, communication, team building and problem-solving skills.

The role will be based in Milan.

Application Instructions

Please apply by sending:

i) a CV

ii) a motivation letter in English

iii) a written outline (max. 8 pages long) of how you plan to set-up, manage, and continuously develop the Unit, on the basis of the vision and needs specified in the call.

iv) names and contacts of 2 referees.

 

Additional information:

HT offers a highly collaborative, international culture to foster top quality, interdisciplinary research by promoting a vibrant environment consisting of independent research groups with access to outstanding graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and core facilities.

HT is an inclusive employer that fosters diversity and engages systematically to ensure that equal employment opportunities are provided without regard to age, race, creed, religion, sex, disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin or any other legally recognized status entitled to protection under applicable laws. HT offers attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to a leading, internationally competitive, research organisation that promotes a collegial and open atmosphere.

For specific enquires concerning the role only, please contact Prof. Giuseppe Testa, Head of the Center for Neurogenomics: [email protected]  (this email address should not be used to send applications).

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