Research Scientist

Job Posting Title:

Research Scientist

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Hiring Department:

Department of Neuroscience

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Position Open To:

All Applicants

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Weekly Scheduled Hours:

40

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FLSA Status:

Exempt

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Earliest Start Date:

Jan 01, 2026

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Position Duration:

Expected to Continue Until Dec 31, 2026

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Location:

AUSTIN, TX

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Job Details:

General Notes

The Drew Lab in the Center for Learning and Memory at the University of Texas at Austin seeks a Research Scientist who will support cutting-edge research in neuroscience by overseeing day-to-day laboratory operations, facilitating research projects, and managing laboratory personnel. This individual will play a critical role in grant proposal preparation, undergraduate training and supervision, and administrative compliance (IACUC, biosafety, and purchasing). The candidate will be a key member of the lab, providing both scientific and operational leadership.

The Drew Lab investigates how neural circuits in the hippocampus generate, retrieve, and regulate detailed memories of experiences. Our interdisciplinary approach uses molecular biology, genetics, optogenetics, and behavioral paradigms in mice to elucidate the biological substrates of learning and memory, with a particular focus on fear extinction and models relevant to stressor-related disorders.

Initial assignment will be for one year. Subsequent renewal of employment will be based upon performance review, progress towards research goals, and continuation of funding. The position will be full-time, benefits eligible. The University of Texas at Austin offers a competitive benefits package to all full-time employees. More information here: https://hr.utexas.edu/prospective/benefits

Purpose

Manage day-to-day laboratory operations, facilitate research projects, and manage laboratory personnel in the lab of Dr. Michael Drew at the University of Texas at Austin.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily laboratory operations, including purchasing, protocol implementation, and safety compliance (IACUC, biosafety). Oversee the maintenance of laboratory records and ensure data integrity and compliance with institutional policies. 

• Develop, lead, and execute independent and collaborative neuroscience research projects; contribute technical and intellectual expertise to the team.

• Assist with preparation and editing of grant proposals and research manuscripts. Present research at meetings and conferences. 

• Supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate student researchers; foster a collaborative and supportive research environment. Engage with lab personnel to train, review, and support ongoing research and development activities.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in neuroscience or a related field.

• Demonstrated experience in research project management, including compliance administration, purchasing, or similar duties.

• Strong record of independent scholarly research, preferably with experience in manuscript or grant preparation.

• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in laboratory management, including supervising junior staff or students.

• Experience with rodent behavioral neuroscience research or a similar field.

• Familiarity with biosafety, IACUC, or related regulatory compliance.

• Strong quantitative skills and experience with statistics or data visualization.

Salary Range

$75,000 + depending on qualifications

Working Conditions

• May work around chemical fumes.

• May work around standard office conditions.

• May work around biohazards.

• May work around chemicals.

• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.

Required Materials

• Resume/CV

• Letter of Interest/Research statement

• Minimum of three letters of reference, at least two of which must be from referees outside of the University of Texas at Austin. (Hiring PI/supervisor cannot be a reference)

Important for applica