Behavioral Neuro Lab Research Associate (Psych)

University of California San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

UC San Diego’s Psychiatry Department seeks a Behavioral Laboratory Research Associate to conduct behavioral experiments with mice and rats, perform biochemical and molecular assays, and maintain precise records. The role includes assisting in rodent surgeries, breeding programs, and training students, within a pre-clinical research lab focused on psychiatric disorders.

The position requires a bachelor’s degree in psychology or neuroscience, rodent handling skills, and strong organizational

Qualifications

• Theoretical knowledge in psychology/neuroscience or related field with degree or equivalent experience.
• Experience handling rodents and performing standard lab assays (ELISAs, DNA/RNA extraction, immunohistochemistry).
• Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain detailed records.
• Experience with calculating dosages and dissolving chemicals.
• Ability to communicate effectively with all lab levels.
• Ability to work under supervision and handle confidential information.

Responsibilities

• Conduct behavioral experiments with mice and rats and perform biochemical assays.
• Maintain accurate testing records and handle animal euthanasia as instructed.
• Assist with breeding of transgenic lines and tissue processing for assays.
• Document procedures for weighing/dissolving drugs and administering them.
• Assist in training undergraduate volunteers and visiting scholars.

Skills

Behavioral psychology knowledge

Animal handling (rats and mice)

Laboratory record-keeping

Dosage calculation

Communication across lab staff

Stability and confidentiality

Education

Bachelor's degree in Psychology/Neuroscience

Tools

LabChart

Med Associates

San Diego Instruments

Noldus

Job description

UC San Diego’s Psychiatry Department seeks a Behavioral Laboratory Research Associate to conduct behavioral experiments with mice and rats, perform biochemical and molecular assays, and maintain precise records. The role includes assisting in rodent surgeries, breeding programs, and training students, within a pre-clinical research lab focused on psychiatric disorders.

The position requires a bachelor’s degree in psychology or neuroscience, rodent handling skills, and strong organizational