Research Assistant I

Research Assistant I

Why join the Neuroscience Department at UT Southwestern?

Neuroscience is an integrated research discipline that seeks to understand the development and function of the nervous system. At UT Southwestern, the Department of Neuroscience concentrates on projects that have a significant impact on understanding neurological and psychiatric diseases.

Job Summary

Dr. Helen Lai has a strong interest in understanding the molecular and circuit mechanisms that underlie sensorimotor behavior, with a focus on pain and proprioception. Lai’s laboratory is looking for an enthusiastic and responsible Research Assistant I to play a role in generating molecular and anatomical atlases of the developing mouse spinal cord. The goal is to understand the processes by which discrete developmental progenitor domains give rise to the diversity of cell types in the adult spinal cord. The role will provide extensive training in cutting-edge -omics technologies.

Laboratory Expectations

·       Background in molecular biology and/or biochemistry required.

·       Experience with sc/snRNA-seq and ATAC-seq, 10x Genomics sequencing technologies preferred.

·       Experience with standard molecular biology, histology techniques, and mouse colony maintenance preferred.

·       Experience or familiarity with spatial transcriptomics technologies a plus.

·       Team player who works well with others.

·       Excellent verbal, written, organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Experience and Education

·       Master's degree with major coursework in field of assignment and no experience required. or

·       Bachelor's degree with major coursework in field of assignment and one (1) year research experience at level of Research Technician or equivalent. or

·       Two (2) years college with emphasis in coursework in field of assignment and four (4) years research experience including two (2) years at level of Research Technician or equivalent. or

·       High school graduation or GED and six (6) years research experience to include two (2) years at level of Research Technician or equivalent.

Job Duties

·       Performs more difficult scientific and medical research work in science areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, or other related scientific field.

·       Constructs, assembles, and operates laboratory equipment and apparatus.

·       Records and evaluates data obtained from work assignments for use in scientific papers.

·       Collaborates with supervisor or other research personnel in preparation of scientific papers for publication.

·       Reads literature and confers with supervisor concerning procedures and implementation.

·       Collects and organizes research data for project reports.

·       May plan for, and provide working supervision to, the work of Research Technicians or other laboratory personnel of lower grade.

·       Performs other duties as assigned.

To learn more about the benefits UT Southwestern offers, visit https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/employees/hr-resources/

This position is security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes UT Southwestern to obtain criminal history record information. UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community.  As an equal opportunity employer, UT Southwestern prohibits unlawful discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or veteran status.