Research Assistant Positions: Neurobiology of Reproductive Function and Behavior
Dr. Victor Navarro, Navarro Lab, Endocrinology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital / Medical School
fall 2023


Our lab focuses on the characterization of the central factors that regulate reproduction and metabolism including, but not limited to, Kiss1 neurons using a variety of genetic mouse models and viral delivery approaches. Duties and Responsibilities: The student will be involved in the study of the neuronal mechanisms that regulate reproductive axis, social behavior, and metabolism along with the neuronal circuitry that links these functions. He or she will be involved in the development and maintenance of mouse colonies, performing anatomical studies, determination of gene and protein expression in the brain (PCR, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, etc) and stereotaxic injections of viral constructs to modify the expression of targeted genes. In addition, he/she will also be involved in the characterization of a number of biological parameters that define reproductive and metabolic functions (e.g., fertility assessments, daily monitoring of puberty onset, body weight, behavioral tests, etc). Requirements and Expectations: The student will be expected to work in collaboration with other members of the lab but in an independent manner. He/she will be encouraged to present their work at local and regional meetings, analyze their data and prepare them for publication. Skills required: Passion, dedication, attention to details and organization, commitment and ability to work with live mice Prior research experience is a plus but not required. Some coursework in neuroscience and molecular biology would be helpful. Additional Information: RA hours and length of project negotiable. No stipend is provided so the student is encouraged to apply for fellowships or register for a research course credit. Mentoring: The student will be mentored by Dr. Navarro and Samuel Zdon, a member in the lab. Weekly meetings will be held. Learning outcomes: The student that joins our lab is expected to acquire knowledge of neuroanatomy and physiology of the neuronal networks that govern the endocrine system. He or She will gain experience in the handling of mice and maintenance of animal colonies as well as in the planning and performing of experimental protocols, analysis and interpretation of results and presentation of the data in lab meetings and conferences. Lab website: http://navarrolab.bwh.harvard.edu. Contact information: Victor M Navarro. Medicine (Endocrinology), BWH 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, Tel: +1 617 525 6566 Fax: +1 617 582 6193 Email: vnavarro@bwh.harvard.edu. To Apply: Email your resume to vnavarro@bwh.harvard.edu. (posted 9/2023)