[Job posting] Full Time Research Assistant University of Minnesota, Noel Lab

Neurostars; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 41,600 - 60,800; Full time

Job summary

Neurostars is seeking a full-time Research Assistant in Minneapolis, MN, ideal for recent graduates or individuals with some research experience. Responsibilities include conducting rodent surgeries and neurophysiological recordings, along with laboratory management tasks. The role emphasizes behavioral data collection and coordination with veterinary staff. Ideal candidates should have a B.A. or B.S. in a relevant field and strong attention to detail. Salary ranges from $41,600 to $60,800 annually, with a start date of January 5, 2026.

Qualifications

• Experience with rodent surgeries and neurophysiology is preferred.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a laboratory setting.

Responsibilities

• Conduct rodent surgeries and neurophysiological recordings.
• Maintain logs and coordinate with veterinary staff.
• Order supplies and troubleshoot equipment.

Skills

Rodent surgical techniques

Neurophysiological recording

Behavioral shaping

Aseptic technique

Spike sorting

Histology

Education

B.A. or B.S. in relevant field

Tools

Silicon probes (e.g., Neuropixels)

Job description

The Noel Lab (noel-lab.org) in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Minnesota is seeking a full-time Research Assistant. This position is ideal for a recent graduate (B.A. or B.S.) or an individual with one to two years of experience as a research assistant in a rodent systems neuroscience laboratory who is looking to gain additional experience prior to pursuing a Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, Cognitive Science, or Psychology. More senior candidates interested in a longer-term staff or senior scientist role are strongly encouraged to contact Dr. Noel separately.

Primary Responsibilities

• Rodent stereotaxic surgeries using aseptic technique (e.g., craniotomies)
• In vivo extracellular neurophysiology with silicon probes (e.g., Neuropixels)
• Rodent handling and behavioral shaping for head-fixed experiments
• Rodent husbandry, ordering, and coordination with veterinary staff
• Troubleshooting experimental setups and communicating issues to the Lab Director or Lab Engineer
• Maintaining water and weight logs
• Ordering laboratory supplies
• Spike sorting
• Perfusions and histology for probe localization, including work with the university imaging core
• Assistance with protocol preparation and IACUC compliance

The successful candidate will participate in all stages of experimental neuroscience, with an emphasis on behavioral and neural data collection, small-animal surgery, and coordination with veterinary and IACUC personnel.

Job Responsibilities

80% Rodent Research and Daily Operations

• Perform rodent surgeries using aseptic techniques
• Conduct neurophysiological recordings
• Handle and behaviorally shape rodents for head-fixed tasks
• Conduct routine rodent husbandry and coordinate with veterinary staff
• Maintain water and weight logs
• Perform histology and probe-track reconstruction

20% Laboratory Management

• Order laboratory materials and supplies
• Troubleshoot equipment and experimental setups
• Coordinate with administrative staff on IACUC protocols and laboratory maintenance

Responsibilities may be adjusted based on the candidate’s skills and interests.

Salary Range: $41,600 - $60,800 per year

Start Date: January 5, 2026, or as negotiated with the selected candidate.

About the Department

Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system. It is an interdisciplinary science that collaborates with other fields such as chemistry, computer science, engineering, linguistics, mathematics, medicine and allied disciplines, philosophy, physics, and psychology. The Department of Neuroscience is committed to providing excellence in research, education, and public service. The Department of Neuroscience is part of the University of Minnesota’s Medical School.

To apply

Option 1 (preferred):

Email CV and Cover Letter to PI Jean‑Paul Noel (Noelx071 [at] umn [dot] edu).