Technical Assistant I/II- Hamilos Lab (Relocation Assistance Available)

Research assistant position at the Hamilos Lab, Whitehead Institute, focused on uncovering the neural circuit mechanisms giving rise to the symptoms of neurological and psychiatric disease. The position involves bench level experiments, caring for and training mice to play games, conducting small independent research projects, and analyzing experimental data. This is a 1 year term position with the possibility of extension. Whitehead Institute is an E-Verify employer.

Responsibilities

Conduct bench level experiments (mouse surgeries, behavioral training, neural recording and optogenetics); Care for and train mice to play games; Conduct small independent research projects; Analyze experimental data; Address methodological problems in experimental protocols and results; Report data to the supervisor; In consultation with the Principal Investigator or other project managers, conduct mouse stereotaxic neurosurgeries; Perform mouse behavioral training, neurophysiology data collection, and small independent research projects; Assist with mouse colony management, breeding, genotyping and animal welfare; Operate and maintain lab equipment in excellent working condition; Prepare/order necessary supplies, reagents and stocks; Work with vendors to address equipment or supply issues; Document, compile, and assist in interpreting data; Report data to supervisor in oral and written reports; Assist with curation of datasets/code in standardized formats for open-source sharing (e.g., via GitHub and DANDI); Perform perfusions, tissue extractions and histology; Consult scientific literature as needed; Assist in supervision and mentorship of undergraduate researchers; Other tasks as required or assigned

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in neurobiology, neuroscience or a field directly related to the work; A BS and 2+ years of experience or an MS and 1+ year of experience is required for the Technical Assistant II title; Proficiency in mouse handling and stereotaxic neurosurgery techniques required; Meticulousness and strong organizational skills required; Desire to learn new skills and tools and participate in team science; Appropriate communications skills required; May be required to work safely with a variety of hazardous materials; Exposure to applicable computer technologies, including specific software applications, may be required

Nice to have

Experience with neuroscience techniques and animal work; Knowledge of various scientific databases and publications; Prior research experience; Demonstrated abilities in basic laboratory techniques; Commitment for two years

Benefits

Relocation assistance available