Research Technician -Knight Lab

We are seeking a Research Technician to support the lab of Dr. Zachary Knight at the University of California, San Francisco. The Knight lab investigates the neurobiology of homeostasis. We are focused on understanding how the need for food or water is detected in the brain and then used to regulate behaviors such as eating and drinking. We perform experiments in mice and rats using an array of state-of-the-art techniques from systems neuroscience, genetics, and physiology. More information about this lab can be found on his website

We are looking to hire a full-time research technician who has experience working with rodents. A core responsibility of the position (~50%) will be to help us to maintain our large and complex colony of transgenic mice, including breeding and weaning animals and performing genotyping. The remaining time (~50%) can be flexibly designed to match the interests of the candidate and can have a focus on either research or lab support/management. We are ideally targeting candidates who can commit to the lab for at least 2-3 years before moving on to their next opportunity.

As with all roles involving animal work, this position will require flexible hours depending on the needs of the experiment.We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic, curious and passionate about their work and would be excited to work in a cutting-edge scientific lab. Key benefits of the position include the opportunity to learn new skills in a welcoming and supportive environment; to interact with friendly, diverse, and intellectually stimulating colleagues; and to contribute as an author to high-impact scientific publications.

What you'll do

Mouse husbandry (50%)

• Genotype the lab's colony of transgenic mice by collecting tissue and performing qPCR

• Set up breeding's and wean animals based on the lab's changing needs for animals of specific genotypes

• Provide treatment or euthanize animals in response to health checks performed by university vets

• Coordinate the efforts of more junior technicians who assist with genotyping and weaning of animals

Research responsibilities (50%) could involve any of the following:

• Run behavioral experiments related to eating and drinking in mice, often in conjunction with advanced techniques from systems neuroscience (e.g. calcium imaging, optogenetics, etc...)

• Analyze brain tissue by immunohistochemistry or in situ hybridization combined with microscopy

• Perform intracranial or peripheral surgeries

• Design, generate, and validate new lines of transgenic mice

• Coordinate the efforts of more junior technicians

• Ensure that lab equipment is properly serviced, and lab supplies are always in stock

• Assist with matters of university compliance (IACUC protocols, chemical inventories, etc...)

• Pro-actively devise and implement new ways to make the lab run more efficiently

Skills You Bring:

• A bachelor's degree in biological science is required. Academic experience in physiology or neuroscience is a plus.

• At least two years of hands-on experience working in a research lab is required.

• At least two years of experience working with rodents is required.

• Experience maintaining a colony of transgenic mice, including genotyping, weaning, and breeding, is highly desirable.

• Experience with basic techniques in molecular biology (e.g. PCR, cloning) or animal physiology (e.g. rodent surgeries, perfusions, tissue processing) would be a plus.

• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.

• Strong multitasking and prioritization skills.

• Ability to be flexible and effectively adapt to a varied and shifting workload.

• Ability to communicate with a variety of people at all levels.

• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with lab staff, vendors, and others.

Physical Requirements

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.