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Our laboratory at the Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute is looking for a highly motivated and curious Research Technician to work closely with a postdoctoral fellow on ongoing experiments using cutting-edge molecular, genetic, functional imaging, and behavioral methodologies to understand how neural circuits of the body-brain axis inform the brain of the state of body tissues, organs, and physiology. 

 

This is not "just a job"—it is an invitation to be at the forefront of neuroscience. We are looking for a collaborator who is genuinely fascinated by how the brain monitors the state of the body and is eager to contribute to high-impact discovery.

 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Experimental Design & Partnership: Collaborate closely with a Postdoctoral Fellow to conceptualize, design, and refine experiments investigating the body-brain axis. You will be expected to think critically about experimental controls, troubleshoot technical hurdles, and suggest iterative improvements to our protocols.
  • Mastery of Advanced Techniques: Undergo specialized training to perform and eventually lead complex biological procedures, including stereotaxic manipulations, mouse survival surgeries, and the use of viral systems for chemogenetics and optogenetics.
  • Neuroanatomical Mapping & Histology: Following physiological or behavioral studies, you will lead the "bench-side" validation of our experiments. This includes brain and tissue harvesting, precision tissue slicing (vibratome/cryostat), and high-level immunostaining (IHC/IF) with antibodies to map neural circuits and protein expression.
  • Data Analysis & Interpretation: Take ownership of the data lifecycle. Beyond just "collecting" numbers, you will analyze results, interpret their biological significance, and present findings during lab meetings to help shape the next steps of the research.
  • Ordering lab supplies and maintaining inventories of chemicals and reagents for experimental procedures.

 

Who You Are

  • Science-First Mindset: You have a deep-seated passion for biological discovery. You want to understand how things work, not just follow a protocol.
  • Rapid Learner: While prior lab experience is a significant plus, we value the ability to learn quickly and adapt to new technologies above all else.
  • Detail-Oriented: You take pride in the precision of your work and the integrity of your data.
  • Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field.

 

Why Join Us?

We foster a culture where curiosity is rewarded and every team member’s growth is a priority. We are looking for an enthusiastic, self-motivated professional to join us for at least two years before pursuing their next opportunity in science or medicine. As a Research Staff Assistant, you won't just perform experiments; you will learn to design them, conduct them independently, and communicate the results. You will be an integral part of a diverse, collaborative team of postdocs and graduate students, receiving hands-on training in a wide array of advanced techniques. If you are organized, responsible, and looking for a world-class environment to sharpen your scientific inquiry skills, this is the ideal role for you.

 

How to Apply

Please submit your CV, transcripts, and a brief cover letter. Rather than a standard formal letter, we’d love to hear about: (1) a scientific concept that excites you, (2) a time you rapidly mastered a difficult skill, or (3) a significant setback you faced and how you overcame it. We value fast learners who aren't afraid of the "fail-and-fix" cycle of discovery.