Researcher 1 - Translational Neural Engineering Laboratory

The Translational Neural Engineering Laboratory in the Department of Psychiatry has an open position for a dedicated, self-motivated Researcher 1 interested in working at the intersection of technology, neuroscience, and mental health. Our laboratory has multiple projects ongoing involving electrical recording, optical and electrical brain stimulation, and real-time signal processing in actively behaving animals (sometimes called "brain-computer interfaces"). The technologies we develop will ultimately be used to change activity in specific brain circuits involved in severe mental illnesses such as PTSD, major depression, addiction, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The open position is available on projects involving stimulation to reverse drug re-seeking in rat models of opioid addiction as well as projects that explore stimulation effects on tests of cognitive flexibility (a key component of cognition that is impacted by many mental health conditions).

Job Responsibilities/Duties:

* (70%) working with senior lab members to optimize and run rodent brain and behavior assays. This includes learning and practicing compassionate care of research animals, with opportunities to learn small animal surgery and other veterinary skills if desired.
* (10%) Recording of physiologic and behavioral data from behaving animals
* (10%) histology and microscopy
* (10%) analysis of the resulting data

If you are interested in making part of this into an independent project and/or contributing to published scientific papers, that is a very common long-term outcome from this position. The essential skills for this work are willingness to learn new skills, precise attention to detail, and scrupulous record-keeping; in both paper and digital formats.

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS or a combination of related education and work experience to equal four years; applies knowledge and skill to a recurring task or activity with emphasis typically on precision and timeliness of execution.
• Willing to train motivated and competent individuals.

We are committed to developing the careers of all our researchers/ technicians. There will be frequent opportunities for interaction with graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and faculty who work in both clinical care and basic research. This includes clinical shadowing opportunities with psychologists and physicians from several specialties. There are regular lab meetings and other opportunities to present and learn about research findings. This position is often used as a springboard to graduate or professional school, usually after 2-3 years in the role. We do also welcome candidates who are interested in careers as professional research staff. This position is most suited for candidates with at least some prior exposure to small-animal research, but we will happily consider motivated and hard-working individuals with demonstrated interest in neuroscience and other relevant skills.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

In addition to applying through the UMN website, please send a resume and cover letter, with specific relevant experience highlighted, to Dr. Leah Davis at davisl@umn.edu.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

Please note: All employees at the University of Minnesota are required to comply with the University's Administrative Policy: COVID-19 Vaccination and Safety Protocol by either providing proof of being fully vaccinated on their first day of employment, or complete a request for an exemption for medical exemption or religious reasons. To learn more please visit:

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.