Research Staff Assistant

Key Skills

Effective communication skills, Environmental, Machine learning techniques, Planning and organization, Teamwork

Job Description

Columbia University's Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute (Zuckerman Institute) supports interdisciplinary neuroscience research and discovery by scientists and scholars across the university and promises to be the most comprehensive institute for brain science. Located in a state-of-the-art facility, world-class researchers are brought together to transform our understanding of the brain and mind.

Columbia University’s Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute is seeking a highly-motivated individual to fill the position of a Research Staff Assistant. The position is in a neuroscience laboratory performing state-of-the-art research linking neural circuits to function, including studies of learning, perception, movement control, and social communication in electric fish and mice.

See https://sawtell-lab.neuroscience.columbia.edu/ for more details.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Under the direction of the PI: perform techniques to map, monitor, and manipulate neural circuits using cutting-edge electrophysiological, anatomical, and optogenetic methods.
• Under the direction of the PI assist with performing techniques such as histology, confocal microscopy, stereotaxic surgery, behavioral training, and video analysis using machine learning tools.
• Support purchases of lab equipment and supplies, maintenance of lab inventories, equipment, and animal colonies as well as routine lab duties.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants must have a science-related Bachelor’s degree. A minimum of one (1) year of related experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior research laboratory experience is highly desired.

The ideal candidate must possess strong organizational skills, keep excellent notes, show sound judgment, and have a collaborative style that fosters teamwork and cooperation as well as the ability to work independently within a diverse and dynamic team environment.