POSITION SUMMARY:
The Zhang lab is seeking an energetic and highly motivated individual interested in a full-time salaried position as a Research Associate 1, conducting research in the areas of sensory biology and neuroscience. The research associate will receive direct mentorship from and work closely with the PI, Dr. Jin Zhang, which will provide invaluable research experience to apply for Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., and M.D. programs.
Our lab is interested in the interplay between sensory biology and internal physiology. We are currently studying the mammalian taste pathway to understand how the nervous system integrates external and internal information to drive behavior and maintain homeostasis. The research associate will learn state-of-the-art multidisciplinary techniques, including single-cell RNA sequencing, CRISPR-based animal engineering, stereotactic brain injections, calcium imaging, optogenetics, and animal behavioral analysis.
Additional Responsibilities/Qualifications
- Prior experience in neuroscience techniques in the mouse model, or knowledge in programming and data analysis languages is preferred.
- The ideal candidate will actively seek to understand the science behind the experiments and work well both independently and in a team.
Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI) or designee, the Research Associate I provides operational support to the laboratory. The Research Associate I will perform research experiments as defined by the PI.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Perform laboratory experiments and may be responsible for a single research project
- Utilize all software relevant to experiment and equipment used
- Interpret data, form conclusions and decide on next steps under the direction of the PI or designee
- Maintain accurate records, may modify protocols with the approval of the PI or designee
- Review literature, publications and grants relevant to assigned projects
- Record results according to established lab, sponsor & university protocol
- Assist with performing data analysis and/or mathematical computations
- Maintain a detailed lab notebook according to lab practice
- Present findings at lab/group meetings
- Monitor laboratory supply levels and order as noted
- Prepare and label buffers, media, solutions, etc.
- Assist with and comply with all safety regulation and infection control standards
- Train on IACUC, IRB, EHS, Radiation safety protocols
- Comply with all applicable state, federal university, and sponsor policies and agreements
- Provide support with identifying problems and challenges, propose resolutions, implement appropriate solutions
- Provide support with drafting standard operation procedures in compliance to EHS regulation specific for the lab
- Perform other duties as required
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelors degree in Biological or Natural Science, or equivalent experience
- Basic understanding of lab safety and protocols
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office products
- Ability to analyze data in a quantitative and objective manner.
- Ability to work in a team environment
UMass Chan Medical School welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.
