Research Technologist
The Department of Molecular Psychiatry Program is seeking a Research Technologist, the goal of our research is to understand the molecular, cellular, and circuit mechanisms underlying etiopatho physiologies of psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and depression. In particular, we investigate how genetic risk factors and environmental factors, such as adolescent cannabis use and psychosocial stress, affect stress-related biological signaling mechanisms, including immune and inflammatory processes, leading to impairment of brain development and brain function that regulates cognitive and mood-related behaviors. Our research will also aim to identify new therapeutic targets and biological markers for early intervention of these devastating conditions.
After entry-level training under the general supervision of a faculty investigator, is responsible for supporting postdoctoral researchers to conduct experiments, independently performing routine tests in a pre-clinical research laboratory, and contributing to general maintenance of the laboratory, equipment and supplies. This position also provides opportunities to learn cutting-edge skills and concepts in molecular neurobiology, neuropsychopharmacology, and neurobehavioral science.
Specific Duties & Responsibilities
- Design and perform experiments under supervision.
- Responsible for mouse colony management, genotyping, and PCR.
- Utilize in vivo models in experiments. Following experimental protocols and in accordance with USDA and AALAC guidelines, monitor animals and maintain health records. Sacrifice and dissect animal remains as required. Support the researchers to conduct behavioral experiments and analyze the data. Prepare tissue for study utilizing histochemical techniques.
- Follow established procedures or protocols and utilize aseptic technique to perform laboratory experiments which may include basic tissue culture, cell separation methods, electrophoretic separations, assays, basic molecular biology, or other specialized histology and biological science techniques.
- Operate basic laboratory equipment such as centrifuge, pH meter, analytical balance, incubator, scintillation counter, spectrophotometer, light microscope, and/or utilizes laminar flow hood.
- Operate lab computers for data entry and maintain accurate data records.
- Assist with seminar preparations and other laboratory responsibilities.
- In accordance with established policies and procedures, monitor inventory levels, order materials and supplies, and count orders upon receipt.
- Maintain and make minor adjustments to equipment, e.g. calibrating, alignment.
- Complete annual university biohazard/universal precaution/radiation safety training, as appropriate.
- Use sterile techniques to avoid contaminating lab experiments.
- Use universal safety precautions to protect self and co-workers from biohazardous materials, including blood-borne pathogens.
- Prepare solutions, reagents, and stains following standard laboratory formulas and procedures.
- Perform miscellaneous related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, Physics or related field.
Preferred Qualifications
- Some related post-undergraduate work experience preferred.
- Experience in molecular biology and rodent husbandry/handling, brain histology, rodent behavioral analysis, bioinformatic analysis, and programming/engineering skills are preferred.
Classified Title: Research Technologist
Role/Level/Range: ACRO40/E/02/CC
Starting Salary Range: $15.50 - $26.00 HRLY ($43,160 targeted; Commensurate with experience)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: M-F 830am - 5 pm
Exempt Status: Non-Exempt
Location: School of Medicine Campus
Department name: SOM Psy Molecular Psychiatry Program
Personnel area: School of Medicine