Research Technician - Scanziani Lab

We are currently looking for a proactive, detail-oriented Research Technician to work in the lab of Dr. Massimo Scanziani at the University of California, San Francisco. The Scanziani lab works to understand the mechanisms by which elementary circuits of neurons control the spatial and temporal structure of cortical activity. Towards this goal, they use in vivo and in vitro electrophysiological, imaging, and anatomical techniques as well as behavioral approaches. Their model system is the rodent's sensory cortex. Their work is revealing the logic and the mechanisms by which elementary circuits, the building blocks of cortical architecture, orchestrate cortical activity. More information about the Scanziani lab can be found by visiting https://www.scanzianilab.org/index.html

The ideal candidate is a professional, collegial individual who will enjoy working with mice, can work well independently and as part of a larger team, and is looking to grow professionally while supporting multiple projects in a medium-sized collaborative academic laboratory. The chosen candidate will be responsible for genotyping, handling, and breeding necessary to maintain the Scanziani lab's colony of mice and provide them for various experiments in the lab along with histology, IF staining, and performing small surgeries and brain dissections. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent college graduate who would like to gain a couple more years of academic research experience before applying to graduate school.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Perform regular checks of every cage in the mouse colony to monitor health and presence of new litters.

• Address any necessary health issues with the colony and take appropriate action in a timely manner.

• Establish new breeding pairs of mice to fulfill experimental needs of the laboratory.

• Read and adhere to all relevant protocols, assist with drafting animal protocol amendments and renewals, and ensure mouse health and safety by adhering to all regulatory bodies' standards for mouse maintenance.

• Perform PCR reactions.

• Prepare slides (vibratome and cryostat) and antibody staining

• Perform small surgeries and brain dissections on mice.

Qualifications:

Education

A bachelor's degree in biology or a closely related discipline is required.

Experience:

• Previous hands-on academic laboratory experience along with a solid understanding of molecular biology techniques (PCR, genotyping, etc.) is strongly preferred. Significant laboratory experience obtained during undergraduate studies is acceptable and will be considered.

• Previous experience with handling mice and immunofluorescent staining would be a plus.

• Superior verbal and written communication skills, strong organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail.

• Time management skills.

• Strong sense of initiative, self-motivation, and capacity for creative problem solving.

• Proficient computer skills (comfort with PC or Mac, Microsoft Office Suite, etc.).

• Ability and willingness to learn new techniques and skills.

• Comfort and willingness to handle and work regularly with live mice.

• Ability to interact positively with all levels of staff and change priorities.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our site to learn more.