Visiting Research Assistant Professor

The University of Pittsburgh BIONIC lab is seeking a Visiting Research Assistant Professor in the field of neural engineering, with a focus on advancing our understanding of neural interface technology. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at bridging the gap between neurophysiology and engineering. Responsibilities include conducting experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to develop innovative solutions for neurological disorders. Candidates should have a strong background in neuroengineering, electrophysiology, or related fields, with experience in experimental design and data analysis. Excellent communication and teamwork skills are essential. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic research environment at the forefront of neural engineering.

About the project: Our Visiting Research Assistant Professor position focuses on the role of oligodendrocytes, pericytes, and other non-neuronal cells in the failure of chronic recording and neuromodulation around implanted microelectrodes. Oligodendrocytes, crucial for myelination, are sensitive to metabolic stress, leading to demyelination and impaired signal transmission, which degrades neural interface performance in disorders like stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), multiple sclerosis (MS), and Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Pericytes, responsible for regulating blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity and cerebral blood flow, are also affected by metabolic stress, resulting in hypoxia, neuroinflammation, and fibrosis around implants, which further impairs neuromodulation. Astrocytes and microglia also respond maladaptively to implants, particularly under metabolic stress. Astrocytic gliosis and microglial activation generate chronic inflammation, encapsulation, and degradation of electrode performance. Using advanced in vivo imaging, we aim to observe the real-time cellular, structural, and molecular changes that occur in these non-neuronal cells due to metabolic stress. This research will improve understanding of how these cells contribute to implant failure and inform strategies to enhance the long-term success of neural interfaces in treating neurological disorders.

Through meticulous examination, we seek to elucidate their role in negative tissue responses surrounding microelectrodes, leveraging transgenic indicators, electrode design modifications, pharmaceutical interventions, and gliomodulation technologies (including neurostimulation, optogenetics, DDREADS, and ultrasound) to modulate progenitor cells, enhance oligodendrocyte health, and improve neurotechnology performance over time. This multifaceted approach promises groundbreaking insights into the dynamic interaction between neural interfaces and the brain's cellular environment, paving the way for innovative interventions in neuroengineering and clinical neuroscience. In addition, candidates will be expected to submit grant independently as well as mentoring post doctorals, staff, and graduate student positions.

Desired Skills:
• Expertise in in vivo multiphoton microscopy, electrophysiology, or neuromodulation, especially in the visual cortex.
• Experience in electrochemistry, confocal microscopy, signal processing (lmageJ/Fiji and MATLAB), immunohistochemistry, and SEM are preferred.
• Knowledge of the neurobiology of brain injuries and neurodegeneration is advantageous. (esp. MS, AD, and stroke)

Qualifications:
• For Candidates: Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Neurobiology, Neuroscience, Molecular/Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Optics, Material Science, or Mathematics.
• A strong research background in electrophysiology, two-photon microscopy, or neurobiology is desired.