Research Technician (HR Title: Research Assistant)

About the Position

The Schretter lab studies the neurological basis behind social interactions using the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. We are seeking an enthusiastic and scientifically curious researcher to support as well as conduct molecular and quantitative behavioral experiments aimed at understanding how the environment shapes aggressive interactions. We expect the hired lab member to participate in experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific inquiry. This is a great opportunity to become a foundational member of a lab committed to mentorship and scientific collaboration.

Essential Functions

• Research support - supporting the collaborative research environment by assisting in fly stock maintenance, setting up behavioral arenas, and performing standard molecular biology techniques (i.e. PCR and gel electrophoresis).
• Independent research - developing and executing an independent research project.
• Lab operations - assisting with lab management (i.e. maintaining order lists).

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s is required.
• Familiarity with molecular biology techniques (i.e. western blotting, gel electrophoresis, genetic crosses) and experimental approaches in neuroscience (i.e. optogenetics, connectomics, and calcium imaging) is required.
• Research experience with a minimum of 2 years of molecular biology lab experience is required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies.
• Candidate must possess strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with demonstrated ability to systematically evaluate complex problems and devise solutions.
• Candidate must also have strong organizational, planning, and time management skills.
• Experience working with Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) and computational experience is preferred.
• Basic coding capabilities (i.e. with Matlab and Python) are preferred.

Physical and Environmental Demands

• Sit for long periods of time
• Exposure to marked changes in temperature/or humidity

Deadline to Apply

Priority consideration may be given to submissions received by April 3, 2026. Application deadline is June 1, 2026 August 1, 2026.

EEO Statement

SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.

Benefits

SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution. SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU. The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits.