Entry-Level Neuroscience Research Assistant

Whitehead Institute; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 43,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Whitehead Institute is seeking an entry-level Research Assistant I to join the Hamilos Lab. The role involves bench level experiments including mouse surgeries, behavioral training, neural recording and optogenetics, plus data analysis and reporting to the supervisor.

The 2-year term position offers opportunities to learn advanced neuroscience techniques, work alongside senior postdocs, and develop skills in multidisciplinary science within a collaborative academic setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in neurobiology, neuroscience or a field directly related to the work.
• Proficient in mouse handling and stereotaxic neurosurgery techniques preferred.
• Meticulousness and strong organizational skills required.
• Desire to learn new skills and tools and participate in team science.

Responsibilities

• Conduct mouse stereotaxic neurosurgeries in consultation with the PI or project managers.
• Perform mouse behavioral training, neurophysiology data collection, and independent projects.
• Assist with mouse colony management, breeding, genotyping and animal welfare.
• Operate and maintain lab equipment in excellent condition and manage supplies.
• Document and interpret data; report findings to supervisor in oral and written form.
• Assist in curating datasets/code for open-source sharing (e.g., GitHub, DANDI).
• Perform perfusions, tissue extractions and histology; stay compliant with safety protocols.
• Supervise and mentor undergraduate researchers and collaborate across teams.

Skills

Mouse handling

Stereotaxic surgery

Scientific databases

Organizational skills

Team science

Education

Bachelor’s degree in neurobiology or neuroscience

Job description

Whitehead Institute is seeking an entry-level Research Assistant I to join the Hamilos Lab. The role involves bench level experiments including mouse surgeries, behavioral training, neural recording and optogenetics, plus data analysis and reporting to the supervisor.

The 2-year term position offers opportunities to learn advanced neuroscience techniques, work alongside senior postdocs, and develop skills in multidisciplinary science within a collaborative academic setting.