Technical Assistant I/II- Hamilos Lab (Relocation Assistance Available)

Classification: Exempt Job Family: Technicians Reports to: Whitehead Fellow Job Description Summary: OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY We are looking for a research assistant (Technical Assistant I/II) to join our team. The position involves bench level experiments (mouse surgeries, behavioral training, neural recording and optogenetics), caring for and training mice to play games, conducting small independent research projects, analyzing experimental data, addressing methodological problems in experimental protocols and results, and reporting data to the supervisor. *This is a 1 year term position with the possibility of extension* HAMILOS LAB RESEARCH   Our goal is to uncover the neural circuit mechanisms giving rise to the symptoms of neurological and psychiatric disease.  To do so, we take direct inspiration from clinical observations to form hypotheses about the neural cell types and circuits involved in cognitive and behavioral symptoms. We then  train mice to play games  that require them to think and move in ways patients struggle. Then, to understand how neural circuits are involved in these cognitive processes, we observe and manipulate genetically-defined neurons as mice play these games. We simulate deficits in these circuits in the setting of disease using a toolkit of  multisite electrophysiology ,  fiber photometry  and  optogenetics . We then apply  advanced statistical methods ,  machine learning  and  probabilistic models  to understand how these neural circuits affect the mouse’s behavior and relate these findings to what we see in the clinic.   We have an exceptional track record of training young scientists. This position is ideal for highly organized, motivated and hard-working individuals seeking to launch careers as scientists in academia or industry. You will have the opportunity to work side-by-side with senior postdocs at the bench, mentor students and contribute to multidisciplinary scientific teams.   CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES   ·        In consultation with the Principal Investigator or other project managers, conduct mouse stereotaxic neurosurgeries. ·        Perform mouse behavioral training, neurophysiology data collection, and small independent research projects. ·        Assist with mouse colony management, breeding, genotyping and animal welfare. ·        Operate and maintain lab equipment in excellent working condition. ·        Prepare/order necessary supplies, reagents and stocks.  Work with vendors to address equipment or supply issues. ·        Document, compile, and assist in interpreting data. Report data to supervisor in oral and written reports. ·        Assist with curation of datasets/code in standardized formats for open-source sharing (e.g., via GitHub and DANDI). ·        Perform perfusions, tissue extractions and histology ·        Consult scientific literature as needed ·        Assist in supervision and mentorship of undergraduate researchers ·        Other tasks as required…