The lab of Stephen Back, M.D., Ph.D. at Oregon Health & Science University is seeking a Research Associate for studies of the effects of fetal and neonatal intermittent cerebral hypoxemia on brain development.  The lab currently has NIH funding for studies to explore the sequelae of maternal sleep apnea on fetal and postnatal brain development.  Despite the fact that maternal sleep apnea commonly occurs in roughly 20-40% of human pregnancies, the long-term impact on brain development and neurobehavior is unknown.  Studies are currently underway in a fetal sheep model to understand the effects of maternal intermittent hypoxia using a multidisciplinary approach that utilizes high field ex vivo MRI, hippocampal electrophysiology and neurona morphology.  All of these approaches are well established in the lab (see for example: Sci Transl Med 5(168):168ps2, 2013; Journal of Neuroscience, 39(40):7853-7871, 2019). 

 

This ideal candidate for this position will have direct experience with sheep including monitoring the health and well-being of the animals. Some maternal or fetal surgical experience is ideal but is not required. The project will involve two phases.  Experimental studies involve the delivery of a well-tolerated maternal mild hypoxia protocol in pregnant ewes, which is established in the lab, and includes monitoring of maternal oxygenation by pulse oximetry to validate the physiological response to hypoxia. Experience with the computer assisted acquisition and analysis of physiological data is preferred.

• Master's Degree in relevant field AND 3 years of relevant experience OR Bachelor's Degree in relevant field AND 5 years of relevant experience.
• Direct experience with sheep including monitoring the health and well-being of the animals.
• The successful candidate will work in a lab setting and must have good communication skills, excellent recordkeeping and computer skills; and possess the ability to work independently while functioning within a team environment.
• Excellent organizational skills, be enthusiastic about their work, and be highly motivated to succeed in a multi-disciplinary/multi-collaborator setting that provides a wealth of opportunities in one of the major universities for neuroscience research in the U.S.

• Maternal or fetal surgical experience is ideal.
• Experience with the computer assisted acquisition and analysis of physiological data is preferred.

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