Research Support Assistant

About the role

The Research Support Assistant will conduct and assist in experiments aimed at understanding the neurobiological mechanisms underlying psychiatric disorders using the mouse as a model system. The lab uses a variety of experimental approaches, including: electrophysiology, fiber photometry, optogenetics, quantitative behavioral analysis, and fluorescence microscopy.

Responsibilities

• Performs stereotaxic surgical procedures on mice.
• Performs drug administration and postsurgical care.
• Executes behavioral assays of mouse behavior, including motor function, motivation, food intake, and drug reward.
• Processes brain tissue for immunohistochemical analysis.
• Acquires, processes, and performs quantification of images obtained by fluorescence microscopy.
• Analyzes data using statistical techniques and software.
• Performs molecular biology procedures such as nucleic acid extraction, conventional PCR and real-time PCR, expression vector subcloning, Western Blot.
• Prepares buffers and solutions for experiments.
• Assists with ordering of lab supplies, maintain inventory of reagents and supplies.
• Keeps detailed records and reports and discusses progress of work regularly with project supervisor and Principal Investigator.
• Facilitates lab compliance with institutional policies focused on lab safety and animal care.

Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to work independently on a research project.
• Proficiency in use of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Powerpoint.
• Familiarity with GraphPad Prism, Photoshop, Matlab and MedPC.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a biological science.
• Minimum six months experience in the handling of laboratory mice.

Benefits

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement plans; life insurance; short and long-term disability; employee assistance program (EAP); tuition remission; and generous time off.

Pay

Minimum Starting Salary: $45,000
Maximum Starting Salary: $46,000

Schedule

Scheduled Hours Per Week: 35