Job Description

Position Description

Design and execute electrophysiology experiments on native neurons to characterize the role of individual ion channels in controlling electrical excitability of a variety of neuronal types. Work with medicinal chemists to design novel compounds targeted to ion channels to selectively inhibit electrical activity of pain-sensing neurons or neurons driving epileptic activity. Design and execute both manual patch clamp and automated patch clamp studies to characterize state-dependent interactions of candidate drug molecules with sodium, calcium, and potassium channels in both native neurons and heterologously-expressed in cell lines. Train graduate students and post-doctoral fellows in electrophysiology and ion channel pharmacology. Prepare drafts of reports, manuscripts, and patent applications.

Basic Qualifications

Master's Degree and 5+ years of relevant experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Ph.D. in neurobiology, physiology, pharmacology, biophysics, or a related field strongly preferred.
Experience with patch clamp electrophysiological studies of ion channel pharmacology and have knowledge of biophysics of voltage-dependent gating of sodium, calcium, or potassium channels.
Experience with electrophysiological recording from native neurons, experience with automated patch clamp, and experience with drug design for ion channel-targeted drugs are desirable.
Salary commensurate with expertise and previous accomplishment.

Additional Information

This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position.

This is an in-person position based on our campus in Boston.

Offer contingent upon successful completion of a pre-placement medical evaluation.

The University requires all Harvard community members to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and remain up to date with COVID-19 vaccine boosters, as detailed in Harvard’s Vaccine & Booster Requirements. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. More information regarding the University’s COVID vaccination requirement, exemptions, and verification of vaccination status may be found at the University’s “COVID-19 Vaccine Information” webpage: http://www.harvard.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-information/.

Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.

Harvard University offers an outstanding benefits package including:
Time Off: 3 - 4 weeks paid vacation, paid holiday break, 12 paid sick days, 12.5 paid holidays, and 3 paid personal days per year.
Medical/Dental/Vision: We offer a variety of excellent medical plans, dental & vision plans, all coverage begins as of your start date.
Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with full vesting after 3 years of service.
Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive tuition assistance program, incredibly affordable classes directly at the Harvard Extension School, and discounted options through participating Harvard grad schools.
Transportation: Harvard offers a 50% discounted MBTA pass as well as additional options to assist employees in their daily commute.
Wellness options: Harvard offers programs and classes at little or no cost, including stress management, massages, nutrition, meditation, and complementary health services.
Harvard access to athletic facilities, libraries, campus events, and many discounts throughout metro Boston.
The Harvard Medical School is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Harvard Medical School strives to cultivate an environment that promotes inclusiveness and collaboration among students, faculty and staff and to create new avenues for discussion that will advance our shared mission to improve the health of people throughout the world.