The Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Technologist 2 to join their team.   

About this Opportunity

Reporting to Dr. Michael Bruchas, the Research Technologist II is responsible for supporting experimental research within the Bruchas Lab as part of the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion Research Lab (NAPE). This role assists with designing and conducting experiments that examine how neuromodulators function within neural circuits across discrete brain states. The position plays a key role in advancing understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying addiction, pain, and emotion through hands-on laboratory research. 

Key Responsibilities 

Experiment Assistance and Mouse Colony Management (75%) 

• Assist with mouse-based research studies, experiments, and assays, including preparation of solutions; optogenetic and chemogenetic techniques; mouse anatomy; behavioral experiments; brain tissue immunohistochemistry; and stereotaxic and surgical implant procedures. 

• Collect, organize, and manage experimental data within the scope of the position, and perform data analysis using statistical programs associated with the Center. 

• Manage the mouse colony by preparing breeding cages for genetic crosses, weaning litters of mice, performing genotyping PCR on mouse strains, and maintaining accurate colony records. 

• Ensure research activities are conducted in accordance with approved protocols and animal care guidelines. 

General Laboratory Operations Support (25%) 

• Assist with modifications to animal protocols and support regulatory compliance activities. 

• Maintain laboratory inventory, order supplies as needed and perform general laboratory maintenance. 

• Assist postdoctoral fellows and graduate students on various research projects as required and within the scope of the position. 

Required Qualifications 

To be considered for this opportunity, your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration. 

Minimum Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s Degree in an appropriate field of technology or science, PLUS one year of research experience equivalent to Research Technologist I OR one year of full-time post-baccalaureate college in an appropriate field of science or technology. Professional level experience may be substituted, year-for-year, for the formal academic degree. 

• The announcement of position vacancy (recruiting bulletin) may specify course work or experience within a specific discipline if determined necessary by the personnel officer. 

• Training or experience within a specific discipline will be required to meet the unique requirements of individual positions. 

• Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Department

Additional Qualifications 

• Laboratory research experience with animals 

• Familiarity with Python and Matlab programming environments and statistical methodologies 

• Expert in general scientific approach to research 

• Prior experience with solution preparation 

• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal 

• Must be able to manage several projects with multiple timelines with expertise 

• Strong ability to problem solve 

• Demonstrated ability to use Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) 

• Must be highly motivated and have demonstrated ability to work both independently and cooperatively in a group setting 

• Willingness and ability to assist others in research activities 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Prior experience performing PCR 

• Prior experience in animal models of neuropsychiatric or neurodevelopmental disorders 

• Prior exposure to optogenetic techniques