Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The College of Engineering, Graduate Program in Acoustics at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to lead an interdisciplinary project investigating the effects of non-invasive ultrasound stimulation on cognitive function and brain waste clearance (the glymphatic system).
The successful candidate will explore the hypothesis that chronic transcranial ultrasound can enhance glymphatic transport, thereby slowing cognitive decline associated with aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
Key Responsibilities:
Animal Studies: Build a small animal ultrasound platform and perform chronic ultrasound stimulation in rat models.
Behavioral Testing: Conduct and analyze complex operant behavior tasks
Histology & Safety: Perform immunohistochemistry (IHC) to assess blood-brain barrier integrity, neuroinflammation (GFAP, Iba-1), and neuronal health.
Data Dissemination: Analyze data, prepare manuscripts for publication, and present findings at conferences.
Qualifications:
Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, Acoustics, or a related field.
Experience with small animal ultrasound neuromodulation, or glymphatic system research is highly desirable.
Strong communication skills and the ability to work in a collaborative, cross-disciplinary environment.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
BENEFITS
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.