Laboratory Research Technician

Laboratory Research Technician

The University of Pittsburgh, Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences, is seeking a talented and motivated Research Technician in the Neuroscience department, to join the Runyan lab team (www.runyanlab.org). In our research, we use cutting edge genetic and optical tools to monitor and manipulate the activity of defined neural populations, while mice engage in sensory discrimination tasks in virtual reality. Our goal is to understand how brain areas interact at the level of cells and circuits to transmit and process information. This position will involve ensuring lab compliance with animal and chemical regulations. The position requires mouse colony maintenance and husbandry and mouse behavioral training. Additional support for mouse survival surgeries, two-photon calcium imaging and stimulation data collection will provide learning opportunities in these techniques. Experience in handling mice, preferably behavioral training in virtual reality experiments is required. The ideal candidate has excellent organizational and communication skills, excellent interpersonal skills, a strong interest in a career in neuroscience research, and motivation to learn new methods.

Performs a variety of laboratory experiments and procedures. Prepares specimens. Oversees supply management. Operates and properly maintains equipment.

Train mice to perform behavioral tasks. Ability to provide detailed documentation of experiments. Assist in surgery and imagining experiments. Run analysis routines in MatLab and Python.Order supplies. Update lab website. Ensure lab is in compliance with chemical and animal regulations. Maintain mouse colony.

Position requires significant standing, travel around campus, and lifting up to 25 lbs.

The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.