Behavioral Lab Research Associate, Psychiatry (Animal Studies)

UC San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 63,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

UC San Diego is seeking a Behavioral Laboratory Research Associate in the Department of Psychiatry to conduct behavioral experiments with mice and rats, perform biochemical and molecular assays, and document testing procedures. The role requires meticulous record keeping, animal handling, and collaboration with the lab manager and visiting scholars.

Under supervision, you will assist with breeding of transgenic lines, perform surgeries including stereotaxic cannula placement, weigh and dissolve

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, Biology or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience handling rats and mice (restraining, tagging, injections, etc.).
• General laboratory and behavioral lab experience.
• Experience with calculating dosages and dissolving a variety of chemicals.
• Experience with DOS/Windows and Microsoft Office.
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.
• Experience with ELISAs, DNA/RNA extraction, immunohistochemistry.
• Excellent communication with lab personnel.
• Familiarity with research file management and confidentiality.
• Knowledge of stereotaxic surgery and anesthesia administration in rodents.

Responsibilities

• Conduct behavioral experiments with mice and rats and collect data.
• Perform biochemical and molecular assays on animal and human tissues.
• Maintain accurate records of testing and tissue processing.
• Assist with breeding of transgenic mouse lines and training of volunteers/visitors.
• Assist with rodent surgeries including stereotaxic cannula placement and implants.

Skills

Lab techniques

Rodent handling

Data recording

Stereotaxic surgery

ELISAs / DNA/RNA

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

LabChart

Med Associates

San Diego Instruments

Noldus

Coulbourn

Job description

UC San Diego is seeking a Behavioral Laboratory Research Associate in the Department of Psychiatry to conduct behavioral experiments with mice and rats, perform biochemical and molecular assays, and document testing procedures. The role requires meticulous record keeping, animal handling, and collaboration with the lab manager and visiting scholars.

Under supervision, you will assist with breeding of transgenic lines, perform surgeries including stereotaxic cannula placement, weigh and dissolve