Research Lab Tech II

University of Southern California; Glendale (CA); On-site; USD 35,418 - 37,195; Full time

Job summary

The University of Southern California is seeking a Research Laboratory Technician II for the Bienkowski Lab to perform surgeries and analyses using advanced imaging techniques. The ideal candidate should have at least a Master's degree and experience in wet lab environments.

Your role will include conducting stereotaxic surgeries, handling laboratory equipment, and maintaining accurate study records. A commitment to translating research insights into clinical applications is essential for this position.

Qualifications

• 2 years of wet lab experience.
• Experience with stereotaxic surgeries and transneuronal tracer injections.
• Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and protocols.

Responsibilities

• Conduct stereotaxic surgeries using anatomical tracer molecules.
• Perform histology, imaging, and analysis on 3D datasets.
• Manage lab purchasing and maintain surgical room equipment.

Skills

Wet lab experience

Stereotaxic surgeries

Transneuronal viral tracer molecules

Laboratory techniques

Computer and imaging software

Education

Master's degree

Associate's degree or specialized training

Job description

The USC Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute and Laboratory of Neuro Imaging (INI, www.ini.usc.edu) are world leaders in the development of advanced computational and scientific approaches for the comprehensive mapping of brain structure and function. LONI's unique multidisciplinary environment and cutting edge resources allow for integration of clinical, psychological and genotypic information with neuroimaging phenotypes for research questions in neurology, psychiatry and developmental neurobiology.

The Bienkowski Lab at the USC Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute is focused on understanding the multiscale organization of the brain in health and disease. The lab uses cutting‑edge technology and 3D confocal and lightsheet microscopy to investigate genetic, anatomical, and functional features of neuronal cell types in both animal models and humans. Our goal is to develop innovative tools and resources to help scientists better translate laboratory research into applied clinical treatments.

We are looking to hire a Research Laboratory Technician II to conduct stereotaxic rodent and/or rabbit surgeries using anatomical tracer molecules and viral vectors, including AAV and rabies virus, and perform histology, imaging, and analysis on 3D image datasets. The Research Laboratory Technician II will also be responsible for managing lab purchasing, maintaining surgical room equipment, organizing study records, and preparing chemical solutions for experiments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree
• 2 years of wet lab experience
• Experience with stereotaxic surgeries
• Experience injecting transneuronal viral tracer molecules
• General laboratory techniques
• Maintenance of laboratory notebooks
• Computer and imaging software

The hourly rate range for this position is $25.71 - $27.00. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Minimum Education: Associate's degree, specialized/technical training, combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education.

Minimum Experience: 2 years.

Minimum Field of Expertise: Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and research protocols. Knowledge of computer analysis techniques and ability to provide routine analysis and interpretation of research data.

Job ID: REQ20175034

Posted Date: 05/12/2026

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