Research Technologist

Execute wet-lab and behavior experiments, including fluorescent immunohistochemistry, RNAscope, and Western blots, in conjunction with data collection and analysis. Maintain rodent housing facilities, purchase laboratory supplies, and manage chemical and rodent-surgery records. Gain exposure to advanced neuroscience approaches such as rodent surgeries (e.g., ovariectomy, stereotaxic surgery), circuit tracing, calcium and dopamine recording with fiber photometry, chemogenetic DREADDs, optogenetics, CRISPR/Cas9, and other molecular genetic techniques in Syrian hamsters. Lead experiments and projects when appropriate and support graduate student projects in the Borland lab; participate in training and mentorship under the PI to develop future career goals. The role is based at Penn State University Park, State College, PA, with a focus on understanding neuronal and molecular mechanisms regulating reward for social interactions, including sex differences, and contributing to research on related neuropsychiatric conditions.