Research Assistant

Vanderbilt University; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanderbilt University in Nashville seeks a motivated researcher to support regenerative biology and neuroscience projects. The role combines experimental procedures with administrative duties, including ordering supplies and inventory management.

Responsibilities include zebrafish experiments, data recording and interpretation, and collaboration with the pharmacology lab. Prior lab experience is preferred, and there is potential to contribute as a co-author on manuscripts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology or related field and prior lab experience.
• Experience at Vanderbilt University is preferred.
• Strong organizational and troubleshooting skills with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments and assist with assays.
• Record, compile, interpret and communicate data.
• Generation of mutant and transgenic zebrafish lines by microinjection.
• Zebrafish surgeries and behavioral assays.
• Molecular cloning and histology (cryostats, immunohistochemistry, microscopy).
• Ordering and preparation of laboratory reagents.
• Participate in weekly group laboratory meetings.

Skills

Research lab experience

Organizational skills

Troubleshooting skills

Literature search

Microsoft Office

Animal handling

Education

Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience or Biology

Tools

Cryostats

Immunohistochemistry

Microscopy

Microinjection

Job description

Job Description

The position is a combination of science and administrative responsibilities. The candidate will play a crucial role in supporting research endeavors by conducting a variety of experimental procedures. S/He will also be required to manage administrative duties such as contributing to placing orders and keeping inventory.

We are looking for highly motivated and ambitious candidates with interest for regenerative biology and neuroscience. Enthusiasm for working with animals is essential. Specialized training will be provided. Previous experience is strongly preferred. The candidate will have the opportunity to figure as co-author on published manuscripts.

About The Work Unit

The Department of Pharmacology is one of the most distinguished Pharmacology departments in the country. Research interests include seven major areas: signal transduction mechanisms, neuronal communication and synaptic signaling, bioactive lipids, molecular basis of neuropsychiatric disorders, structural biology, drug discovery, and cancer biology. For information about research in the laboratory visit https://www.cigliola-lab.com.

Key Functions And Expected Performance

• Conduct experiments and assays.
• Record, compile, interpret and communicate data.
• Generation of mutant and transgenic zebrafish lines by microinjection.
• Spinal cord surgeries and behavioral assays in zebrafish.
• Molecular cloning and histology (cryostats, immunohistochemistry, microscopy).
• Ordering and preparation of laboratory reagents.
• Participation to weekly group laboratory meetings.

Education And Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, Biology or related field and previous experience in a research lab.
• Previous experience at Vanderbilt University is preferred.
• Organizational and troubleshooting skills,attention to details, excellent work ethics.
• Motivation to learn, ability to pick up new techniques promptly and conduct literature search if needed is required.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an efficient, focused, and timely manner.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs and computer skills.