Research Technician - Liberles Lab

We currently have an opening for aResearch Technicianin the lab ofDr. Stephen Liberlesat Harvard Medical School. The work of Dr. Liberles' lab is focused on understanding internal and external sensory systems- from identifying sensory receptors to charting neural circuits that orchestrate behavioral and physiological responses. For example, we investigate how the mouse olfactory system processes a myriad of different odors, like food odors, pheromones, and predator odors that differentially influence hunger, sex, and fear. In other work, we study the vagus nerve - a major communication axis between brain and body that controls autonomic physiology. More information on the work of the lab can be found on their .

We are targeting curious, self-driven candidates who are passionate about the world of sensory neuroscience, and understanding how behaviors adapt to physiological state and need. The successful candidate will be using a molecular and genetic approach to studying neuroscience in mice, and is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to stay 2-3 years before moving on to graduate school or their next opportunity.

As this role involves interaction with animals, there is the chance for occasional night or weekend work, on an as needed basis.

For consideration for this role, please be sure to upload a cover letter, and answer all required questions in the application process.

Principal Responsibilities:

Research - 50%

• Work efficiently and cooperatively with a graduate student or postdoctoral fellow within the lab to support experiments on mouse behavior.

• Perform experiments in sensory neuroscience using state-of-the-art approaches, such as optogenetics, neuronal mapping, imaging, behavioral analysis, mouse genetics, histochemistry, and measurements of autonomic physiology

• Potentially assist with surgeries and tissue culturing work

• Participate in laboratory meetings and read literature applicable to the research area

• Assist with other support duties relating to lab management and operations as required

Mouse Colony Maintenance - 50%

• Assist in the maintenance of a complex mouse breeding colony that involves many genetic backgrounds

• Perform genotyping of genetically modified mice

• Interact effectively with lab members and veterinary staff to ensure a high standard of care and organization

• Communicate directly with Investigator, Researchers, Postdocs, and other lab staff regarding the status of mouse colony operations in an efficient and effective manner

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology or related discipline

  • A passion for neuroscience is strongly preferred

• 1-3 years of experience working in a research lab

  • Prior experience handling mice is strongly preferred

• Self-motivated and able to perform complex tasks effectively and independently with general instruction

• Excellent oral and written communication skills

• Exemplary organizational skills and attention to detail

• Ability to follow instruction with an eagerness to learn, grow professionally, and be
  mentored

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.