Research Assistant I

Details

Posted: 19-Mar-24

Location: USA – MA – Boston

Type: Full-time

Salary: Open

Categories:

Research – Laboratory/Non-Laboratory
Staff/Administrative

Internal Number: 65227BR

Position Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and responsible full-time Research Technician in the laboratory of Dr. Bernardo Sabatini at Harvard Medical School. The Sabatini Lab seeks to understand the mechanisms of synaptic and circuit plasticity that govern learning and development (More information on the lab can be found on their website: https://sabatini.hms.harvard.edu/). We employ a range of approaches including ex vivo and in vivo electrophysiology, optogenetics, imaging and behavior to delineate how changes in neural circuits evolve over the course learning and/or lifespan.
In this role, you will work closely with a postdoctoral fellow, Dr. Kevin Mastro, investigating the neural mechanisms for
reward-driven behavior over aging with a particular focus on the period of development known as adolescence. Furthermore, we will employ reinforcement learning models and machine learning algorithms to uncover how changes in neural activity drive changes in decision-making. The candidate will assist with stereotaxic surgeries, awake-behavior in head-restrained and freely moving mice, large- scale electrophysiological experiments, and histology. The best candidates will be comfortable working both in a team setting and independently and have an organized, methodical approach to their work on their website: https://sabatini.hms.harvard.edu/

Basic Qualifications

One-year related lab experience. Advanced education may count towards experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in any STEM-related fields (Ex. Neuroscience, Computer Science, Physics,
• Chemistry)
• Experience with animal husbandry and knowledge of basic genetics
• Proficiency with database software such as Microsoft Office (Excel, etc)
• Experience with data analysis and programming in MATLAB and/or Python is greatly preferred
• Previous experience with animal behavior will be helpful, but is not required
• Excellent communication, organization, and record keeping skills
• Must be a team player able to interact effectively with a large group and work independently.

Additional Information

This is a 12-month term appointment with the possibility of renewal contingent on funding.
Offer contingent upon successful completion of a pre-placement medical evaluation.
The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.
Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.
The Harvard Medical School is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
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