Research Assistant I- Translational Motor Imaging Laboratory

Boys Town National Research Hospital

We are seeking a research assistant in the Translational Motor Imaging Laboratory at the Institute for Human Neuroscience at Boys Town National Research Hospital. Join a vibrant and growing group of cognitive neuroscientists in Omaha using state-of-the-art neuroimaging equipment and resources in the new 15,000+ square foot Institute for Human Neuroscience building. This position includes ample opportunities for career development, including enrollment in local neuroscience or psychology PhD programs and MD/PhD programs, as well as placement in other nationally recognized research programs. This position is ideal for undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, or comparable career stage applicants seeking to gain research experience to prepare for graduate school and/or a career in neuroscience and/or age-related biological research. Applicants with interest and previous experience in aging and/or neurological populations with cognitive-motor deficits (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, HIV) will be given preference. Major research-dedicated tools in the laboratory include two 306-sensor Neo MEG systems, a 3T Siemens Prisma magnet, brain stimulation equipment, whole-body kinematic sensor technology, and other cutting-edge neuroscience tools.

Successful applicants will have extensive opportunities to learn the latest neuroscience methods, conduct hands-on research with human participants, and author and co-author manuscripts.

Please submit a resume and a one-page cover letter detailing research experience and goals (in one attachment).

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES:

• Assists in the preparation of stimuli and development of appropriate test procedures.
• Assists in research tool preparation, data collection, and procedures in research studies which may include animals, human subjects, etc.
• Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions and results.
• Adheres to lab safety standards.
• Maintains a detailed record of test conditions and results.
• Assists in the calibration, maintenance and cleaning of laboratory equipment and workspace.
• Assists in data collection and data analysis.  Reports findings and project outcomes to the principal investigator and involved staff.
• Assists in the design, construction, and maintenance of electronic devices used in laboratories, including PCs, audio equipment, and special purpose interfaces.
• Assists in the recruitment, scheduling, and testing in research studies using animal or human subjects.
• Uses computers to analyze and plot results of experiments.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to apply knowledge gained through coursework in psychology, speech and hearing, biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and/or computer science.
• Ability to operate and calibrate lab equipment and other electronic devices.
• Ability to operate a personal computer and audio equipment.
• Ability to apply math aptitude in order to perform data analyses and generate results.
• Ability to communicate well, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work directly with laboratory staff personnel and principal investigators.
• Job requires interpersonal skills, close attention to details, math aptitude, independent analytical thinking, organizational skills and flexibility in duties performed.
• Ability to participate in continuing education programs regarding laboratory safe practices.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma required.
• Minimum of one year of college coursework or equivalent experience required.
• Based on area of assignment, bilingual skills may be required.
• If employed in the Cognitive Neuroscience department, Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 90 days of transfer or hire required.
• If employed in the Cognitive Neuroscience department, Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) certification within 30 days of transfer or hire required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Coursework with an emphasis in psychology, speech and hearing, biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, or a research related area is preferred.
• Willingness to be trained and perform blood draws, as well as related biospecimen processing procedures based on relevant study protocols is preferred. 

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