Lab Technician I -Systems Neurobiology Laboratory, Dr. Callaway
The Lab Tech I will be responsible for assisting the Lab Manager with mouse colony management and general lab support. The role will also be responsible for maintaining meticulous records, both on paper and electronically. Other duties include general lab maintenance, organization, and cleaning of the laboratory.
This position will work with the Lab Manager under the supervision of the PI to help with multiple aspects of projects aiming to understand the distinct roles of different types of cortical neurons in visual circuits. The ideal candidate will be eager to learn, organized, and able to work independently on routine tasks as proficiency is acquired. Interest in neuroscience and consistent, longitudinal involvement in research is preferred.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(50%) Assistance with Mouse Colony Management
- Performs mouse colony animal husbandry.
- Performs mouse colony tagging and tissue collection.
- Performs humane euthanasia as needed and/or as directed.
- Organizes and records changes to mouse colony database.
- Data input into automated genotyping software for sample submission.
(50%) Laboratory Support
- Collect, wash, and return glassware to stock.
- Prepare/ Autoclave lab materials/ standard media and solutions.
- Assist in the set-up and operation of simple laboratory apparatus and instruments; read and record instrument data; tabulate data; keep laboratory records.
- Perform inventory of chemicals and supplies; order laboratory supplies and stock laboratory areas as required.
- Assist in hazardous, biohazardous, and radioisotope waste disposal.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
- No professional level experience is required
EDUCATION
Required:
- High school diploma or equivalent
Preferred:
- Undergraduate coursework in neuroscience, data analysis, and related courses
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required:
- Understands operation of basic lab equipment.
- Ability to perform routine, repetitive functions.
- After initial instruction, ability to follow directions and perform repetitive tasks.
- Ability to communicate required information and keep accurate records of work performed.
- Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
- Strong interpersonal skills, including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility.
- Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with diverse groups. Demonstrated skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with personnel at all levels.
Preferred:
- Previous experience working with rodents or in the veterinary field preferred.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
- Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
- Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs.
- Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
- Must be willing to sign a confidentiality agreement.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/MENTAL ACTIVITIES/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
The incumbent will be constantly handling, seeing, and sitting while frequently being exposed to animals, working indoors, reading, communicating, analyzing, walking, touching/feeling, talking, standing, reaching, and hearing.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)