Research Lab Technician II NEUROLOGY HV

About the Role

The Venkatesh Lab is at the forefront of cancer neuroscience, exploring the intersection of cancer biology and neuroscience to uncover the electrical and molecular mechanisms driving neuron-cancer communication. Our research focuses on characterizing and therapeutically targeting these pathways in the central and peripheral nervous systems, with the goal of developing innovative treatments by exploiting tumor microenvironment dependencies. We are seeking a detail-oriented, motivated Research Lab Technician II to provide technical and research support for our lab's projects.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with researchers to generate high-quality data for publications, grant proposals, and presentations.
• Perform advanced mammalian cell culture (routine maintenance, transfection, differentiation).
• Assist in designing and executing experiments focused on the peripheral nervous system and peripheral cancers.
• Independently conduct IHC/IF staining, tissue mounting, and imaging (confocal/fluorescence microscopy), including image acquisition, processing, and quantitative analysis.
• Mentor and train new lab members in techniques such as mouse handling, genotyping, and experimental design.
• Learn, master, and perform surgical techniques commonly used in preclinical models.
• Independently execute survival surgeries for large mouse cohorts.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant lab environment, including proper storage of reagents, cells, and samples.
• Manage inventory and ordering of reagents and consumables.
• Calibrate and perform routine maintenance on critical equipment (microscopes, centrifuges, PCR machines).
• Ensure compliance with biosafety, animal care, and chemical safety regulations.
• Maintain accurate documentation (protocols, experimental records, safety data sheets).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology or related major required.
• 1-2 years of relevant laboratory experience outside coursework required.
• Demonstrated experience with mammalian tissue culture and aseptic technique.
• Must have at least 1 year of independent, consistent experience with rodent handling, husbandry, and animal experiments.
• Survival surgery experience is a plus.
• Ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot protocols and experiments for various projects in the lab.
• Must be able to maintain detailed and accurate laboratory notebooks documenting experimental procedures, results, and observations.
• Compile, analyze, and present data in a timely fashion, with an attention to detail and careful consideration of deadlines.

Skills

• Analytical skills and ability to resolve technical problems.
• Ability to interpret acceptability of data results.
• Strong Computer skills.
• Demonstrated competence in research techniques and methodologies.