Laboratory Technician II, Neuroscience

POSITION SUMMARY:

The lab is interested in defining how trafficking of proteins essential for communication between neurons (synaptic transmission) is altered in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. To address this question, we use both human patient derived neurons (iNeurons) as well as murine neurons carrying mutations/microdeletions associated with neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. By using a combination of cutting edge live-imaging and whole-cell/optical electrophysiology techniques, we intend to define how mutations associated with neurodevelopmental/neurodegenerative disorders alter the trafficking of proteins essential for synaptic function and how these trafficking deficits alter synaptic transmission.

The primary responsibilities of the technician includes preparing mouse hippocampal neuronal cultures as well as differentiating transformed human fibroblasts into cortical neurons. Additionally, the technician will carry out live-cell microscopy in neuronal cultures to track the trafficking of fluorescently tagged proteins essential for synaptic transmission. The work requires extensive training and the ability to simultaneously handle multiple tasks and the technician will be trained appropriately by the PI. The technician will also performs other duties associated with data collection, including preliminary analysis of the recorded data using software analysis tools. Additional tasks including preparing solutions, ordering reagents for the lab, isolation and purification of DNA constructs, protein isolation, western blotting and mouse colony maintainance. The technician should have excellent organizational skills and attention to detail and must keep detailed records of experiments performed in a designated laboratory notebook. College level training in neuroscience/cellular and/or molecular biology are desirable. Initially, this individual will perform assignments working with regular supervision from the Project Director or the designee. Over time, this individual will develop independence in planning and performing experiments. – This position is uniquely suited as a launching point for research (PhD) or medicine (MD), and enables entry into a future career in neuroscience and cell biology (both academia and industry).

The technician will also have the opportunity to learn advanced techniques to quantify synaptic transmission including whole-cell patch clamp and optical electrophysiology in which the PI has significant expertise. The technician needs to have strong interpersonal skills since the work requires communicating with the PI, other lab members as well as with veterinary staff and other support personnel.

TYPICAL DUTIES:

• Perform isolation and in-vitro culture of hippocampal and cortical neurons from mouse models of neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. Perform assays to convert transformed human fibroblasts to neurons (iNeurons).

• Perform assays to quantify the trafficking of proteins essential for synaptic transmission in both human and murine neurons. This includes transfection/infection of neurons with fluorescently tagged proteins and tracking them using real-time high-resolution live-microscopy as well as immunofluorescence assays.

• Genotyping and maintenance of mouse strains. DNA isolation and purification using maxi-preps.

• Maintains detailed lab journal. Records and calculates results. Presents data in prescribed formats.

• Trouble shoot experiments and equipment malfunctions. Independence in problem solving is highly encouraged.

• Research literature to develop methods and resolution of technical problems in the evaluation of the appropriateness of techniques used in experimental protocols.

• Assist with general laboratory needs, including monitoring computer-based inventories and databases supply organization and maintenance. Other job duties and tasks as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School diploma or GED required.

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience or related field preferred.

• 2 years of specialized experience in a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience required.

Preferred

• Ability to work with animals.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain a well-organized laboratory.

• Competence with computer software and hardware.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Candidate must have excellent command of oral and written English language and work in a collaborative work environment.

• Required computer skills include MS Word, Excel, Photoshop, and statistical software.

• Occasional weekend and evening hours may be necessary

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion to advance the University’s mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other status protected by law. This commitment extends to the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates from underrepresented populations, veterans, and persons with disabilities consistent with these values and government contractor Affirmative Action obligations.

How To Apply

All applicants must apply online.

EOE Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled

Pay Range

Pay Range: $19.37 - $27.12 Hourly

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job’s compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

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Full/Part Time: Full-Time
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