Research Assistant II - Neurobiology and Anatomy (Finance)

The candidate will join a newly established lab as one of its earliest members, offering a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the lab from the ground up. They will gain hands-on experience in setting up advanced experimental systems, designing novel behavioral experiments, and contributing to the foundational research direction of the lab. Additionally, the candidate will engage in cutting-edge systems neuroscience research, collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, and advance our understanding of the neural circuit mechanisms underlying sensorimotor control.

The lab is part of a vibrant department with diverse expertise across multiple areas of neuroscience, providing abundant opportunities for collaboration and interdisciplinary learning. The candidate will also benefit from the broader neuroscience network at Baylor College of Medicine, the University of Houston, and Rice University. This includes access to state-of-the-art resources, intellectual exchange, and collaborative opportunities with a wide range of scientists and clinicians.

Furthermore, the candidate will have the unique advantage of working with a network of physicians integral to the institution. These connections foster translational research opportunities that bridge basic neuroscience with clinical applications, enabling the candidate to contribute to innovative approaches that impact both fundamental understanding and medical practice. This dynamic and resource-rich environment is ideal for someone seeking to grow and excel in both fundamental and translational systems neuroscience research.

The candidate will learn and apply cutting-edge systems neuroscience techniques to measure and analyze neural activity in awake, behaving mice. They will receive training in state-of-the-art approaches, including widefield and two-photon imaging, optogenetic manipulations, neuroanatomical circuit tracing, behavior training, and computational analysis using advanced machine learning and AI to investigate neuronal circuits mechanisms.

Position Summary:

Under general direction of senior research staff, conducts activities to support research projects. Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices.

Position Key Accountabilities:

Conducts research activities, under general direction, according to research. Research activities may include some or all of the following: patient recruiting and screening, traditional laboratory experiments and activities, informatics, field interviewer recruiting, screening and training and/or animal laboratories.

Maintains adequate level of lab supplies to assure timely achievement of lab activities.

Maintains accurate and timely records to include notebooks, records, databases, etc. as needed by the research project.

Monitors laboratory and/or other supplies to ensure sufficient inventory to support research projects. Ensures quality of reagents or other supplies.

Stays abreast of new and updated protocols for research department

As needed, coordinates the work of laboratory technicians, support staff and other assistants to ensure efficient, timely and high quality results. Answers questions or resolves problems regarding routine or more complex duties.

Complies with all governmental and University policies, rules, regulation and codes.

May participate in continuing education programs, workshops and seminars.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Certification/Skills:

General knowledge and some detailed concepts of research field assigned.

Minimum Education:

Bachelor's degree or relevant experience in lieu of education.

Minimum Experience:

One year of related experience in a research or clinical lab environment.
May substitute required experience with equivalent years of education beyond the minimum education requirement.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with data analysis software, either MATLAB or Python, is highly desired

• Prior experience with rodent handling and surgery is desired or should be willing to learn.

• Prior experience with imaging or electrophysiology recording in behaving animals is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

Exerts up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or 10 pounds frequently and/or up to 10 pounds constantly to move objects.
This position may include work involving potentially hazardous chemical, biological or radioactive agents.

Security Sensitive:

This job class may contain positions that are security sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of Texas Education Code § 51.215

Residency Requirement:

Employees must permanently reside and work in the State of Texas.