RESEARCH ASSISTANT I - Contet Lab

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POSITION TITLE:  Research Assistant I

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Contet laboratory studies the neurobiological mechanisms underlying excessive alcohol drinking and pathological consequences of chronic alcohol exposure using mouse models and genetic approaches for the manipulation and analysis of specific brain cell populations. We are looking for a Research Assistant to conduct in vivo and in vitro experiments, operate and maintain specialized equipment, and help develop new experimental procedures. The Research Assistant will contribute to multiple projects and will coordinate their activities with other lab members to optimize experimental progress. Contributions will be credited by authorship on publications as appropriate. 

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: 

• Conduct experiments involving manual recording and computer-assisted quantification of mouse behaviors, alcohol vapor exposure, systemic drug administration, intracerebral injection of viral vectors, intracerebral implantation of optical fibers, blood collection, transcardial perfusion, and brain collection.
• Carry out mouse brain slicing, punching, immunostaining, and imaging.
• Assist with mouse husbandry and genotyping.
• Conduct molecular biology experiments, such as DNA cloning, mRNA and protein extraction, qPCR, immunoprecipitation, and immunoblotting.
• Operate and maintain alcohol vapor inhalation equipment, train new users and provide oversight.
• Use and modify programs for live tracking of animals and optogenetic control. Train new users and provide oversight.
• Implement and validate new methodological approaches with guidance from faculty and staff.
• Contribute to collaborative projects. Coordinate with and assist other lab members as needed to facilitate training and data collection.
• Work under general supervision. Assistance given for unusual problems and normally reviewed for application of sound professional judgement. Independently conduct a wide variety of standard laboratory techniques/procedures while using judgement when necessary to adapt standard methods and techniques. Receive instructions on specific assignment objectives, complex features, and possible solutions.
• Provide interpretation and analyses of results. Troubleshoot and modify procedures. Readily communicate issues and outcomes.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Requires a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience or a related scientific discipline.
• Requires 1-3 years’ relevant experience in a laboratory setting.
• The candidate must be comfortable with the use of animals in research and must be sensitive to ethical considerations associated with animal work. They will be required to handle mice on a regular basis.
• Impeccable work ethics, excellent organizational skills, and high attention to detail are required.
• Extensive experience with mouse handling and behavioral testing is required. Experience with brain tissue processing/analysis is required.
• A solid understanding of brain anatomy, brain function, and behavior is preferred. Knowledge of modern techniques for the quantification and manipulation of gene expression and cellular activity is preferred.
• Priority will be given to candidates with short commutes and a flexible schedule.

PHYSICAL REQUIRMENTS: 

• This position works in a laboratory and vivarium environment.
• The candidate needs to be able to handle mice and operate lab equipment with no physical limitations. They will be in physical contact with mice.
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed during the interview process.

COMPENSATION: The expected hiring range for this position is $20-25 per hour, commensurate with experience. Considera