Research Technician I

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Job Location (Full Address):

601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14642

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Department:

400010 Neuroscience

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URG 104 H

Compensation Range:

$18.65 - $26.11

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

Responsibilities:

GENERAL PURPOSE:
The individual will be part of a research team working to define how trafficking of proteins essential for communication between neurons (synaptic transmission) is altered in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. The lab utilizes both patients derived human neurons (neurons) as well as murine neurons carrying mutations/microdeletions associated with neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders neurons to address these questions. The lab uses a combination of cutting edge live-imaging techniques to quantify the trafficking of proteins essential for synaptic transmission, as well as whole-cell/optical electrophysiology to quantify how synaptic transmission is altered as a result of alterations in trafficking of proteins essential for synaptic function.

Duties will include laboratory work related to neuronal physiology and cell biology in the field of neuronal trafficking in both human and mouse models of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. The individual will perform a variety of moderately complex laboratory experiments. Initially, this individual will perform assignments working with regular supervision from the Project Director or the designee. Over time, this individual will develop independence in planning and performing experiments. – This position is uniquely suited as a launching point for research (PhD) or medicine (MD) and enables entry into a future career in neuroscience and cell biology (both academia and industry).

Procedures performed:
Neuronal cell cultures from murine genetic models. Differentiation of patient derived fibroblasts into cortical neurons. Live-cell fluorescent imaging of cargoes in neuronal processes. DNA isolation and purification, lentivirus purification, protein isolation, gel electrophoresis, immunofluorescent analyses and animal husbandry. Opportunities to learn whole cell and optical electrophysiology to quantify synaptic transmission.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Perform isolation and in-vitro culture of hippocampal and cortical neurons from mouse models of neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. Perform assays to convert transformed human fibroblasts to neurons (iNeurons).
• Perform assays to quantify the trafficking of proteins essential for synaptic transmission in both human and murine neurons. This includes transfection/infection of neurons with fluorescently tagged proteins and tracking them by using real-time high-resolution live microscopy as well as immunofluorescence assays.   
• Genotyping and maintenance of mouse strains under PI supervision.
• Maintains detailed lab journal. Records and calculates results. Presents data in prescribed formats.
• Uses input from PI and lab members to trouble shoot experiments and equipment malfunctions.
• Performs general laboratory duties such as preparing reagents and re-stocking supplies and maintenance of cryopreservation systems. Helps to ensure laboratory compliance for biosafety, EHS and fire inspections. Other job duties and tasks as assigned.
• Other projects and job duties as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or GED required
• Associate’s degree in appropriate discipline preferred
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience required
• Some experience in tissue culture/molecular biology techniques is preferred but is not essential preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Highly motivated individual, self-driven with ability to multitask, g