Neurotech Research Associate: Voltage & Optogenetics

Baylor College of Medicine (BCM); Houston (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 92,000; Full time

Job summary

Baylor College of Medicine in Houston seeks an energetic Research Associate to lead projects on light-responsive proteins in vitro and in vivo. You'll work with GEVI reporters and optogenetic silencers, combining electrophysiology with multi-photon imaging to study neuronal activity at millisecond timescales.

The role involves maintaining rigs, preparing brain slices or dissociated neurons, analyzing data, and mentoring junior lab members. A strong background in electrophysiology is essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree required; three years of relevant experience typically as a research assistant or similar.
• Experience performing electrophysiology in dissociated neurons or brain slices.
• Experience dissecting rat cortical/hippocampal neurons and maintaining an electrophysiology rig.

Responsibilities

• Culture mammalian cells and prepare brain slices or dissociated neurons.
• Conduct experiments combining electrophysiology with optogenetic activation or optical imaging.
• Maintain reagents, tools, and an electrophysiology rig; troubleshoot as needed.
• Analyze data with commercial software or custom pipelines; report results.
• Teach techniques and experimental design; present findings at meetings and conferences.

Skills

Electrophysiology

Two-photon imaging

Brain slices

Neuronal culture

Data analysis

Education

Master's degree in Basic Science or related field

Tools

Electrophysiology rig

Multi-photon fluorescence microscopy

Virus delivery / in utero electroporation (concept)

Job description

Baylor College of Medicine in Houston seeks an energetic Research Associate to lead projects on light-responsive proteins in vitro and in vivo. You'll work with GEVI reporters and optogenetic silencers, combining electrophysiology with multi-photon imaging to study neuronal activity at millisecond timescales.

The role involves maintaining rigs, preparing brain slices or dissociated neurons, analyzing data, and mentoring junior lab members. A strong background in electrophysiology is essential.