Research Professional I, Cognitive Aging Research

Phase2 Technology; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 47,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid vacation

Tuition reduction

Job summary

The University of Arizona is seeking a Research Professional I in Cognitive Aging Research to contribute to studies on cognitive decline and Alzheimer's risk. The successful candidate will assist in data collection, project coordination, and mentoring undergraduate researchers under senior guidance.

This full-time role offers a range of benefits including health insurance, paid leave, and tuition reductions for employees and family.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, biology, biochemistry, physiology, or related field.
• One year of relevant laboratory or research experience preferred.
• Experience coordinating research activities or training undergraduate researchers.

Responsibilities

• Collect, organize, and perform initial quality checks on experimental data.
• Assist in coordinating study schedules and sample processing.
• Train and mentor undergraduate students in laboratory techniques.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Data management

Biological research methods

Research coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in neuroscience or related field

Tools

Fiber photometry

Proteomics

Job description

Title

Research Professional I, Cognitive Aging Research

Department

Neuroscience

Location

Tucson Campus, Tucson, AZ USA

Position Highlights

The Department of Neuroscience at the University of Arizona advances education and research across the diverse and interdisciplinary field of neuroscience. Our work spans a broad range of areas, including nervous system development and physiology, behavior, genetics, pharmacology, computational modeling, and neurological and psychiatric disorders. Through innovative education and research, the department is committed to advancing understanding of the nervous system and preparing students and scholars to contribute to this dynamic and rapidly evolving field of modern science.

The Cognitive Aging and Neural Dynamics Lab within the Department of Neuroscience seeks a Research Professional to support studies of cognitive decline in aging and Alzheimer's disease risk. The lab combines behavioral analysis, diet interventions, with fiber photometry measurements of glucose levels in the hypothalamus. In this role, you will focus on reliable data collection, day-to-day project coordination, and training undergraduate students in research procedures. You will work under the guidance of senior researchers and contribute to a collaborative laboratory environment.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Life insurance and disability programs
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members
• Retirement plans
• Access to U of A recreation and cultural activities
• And more!

Duties & Responsibilities

• Collect, organize, and perform initial quality checks on experimental data, including fiber photometry recordings, proteomics samples and results, and related research measures with guidance from the PI.
• Assist the PI in coordinating study schedules, sample processing, equipment use, research records, and project milestones.
• Maintain databases, laboratory documentation, and standardized procedures so research activities and results can be tracked accurately while following set protocols.
• Follow applicable laboratory safety, research compliance, and animal-use procedures.
• Assist in laboratory activities, including the use, maintenance, and calibration of scientific instrumentation, emphasizing adherence to safety protocols and data reproducibility standards in all research undertakings.
• Prepare materials, operate equipment after appropriate training, and assist with troubleshooting routine experimental and data-collection issues.
• Train and mentor undergraduate students in approved laboratory techniques, data recording, and responsible research practices; review their work and bring questions or concerns to senior lab members.
• Support literature reviews, progress reports, presentations, manuscripts, and grant materials as directed.
• Refine draft manuscripts for submission to academic journals, ensuring adherence to all necessary criteria and standards to elevate the quality and impact of scholarly publications.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, biology, biochemistry, physiology, or a related field; or equivalent advanced learning attained through experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• One year of relevant laboratory or research experience.
• Experience collecting and managing biological research data.
• Experience with proteomics sample workflows, fiber photometry, optical sensors, or related laboratory methods.
• Experience coordinating research activities or training undergraduate researchers.

Employment Details

FLSA: Exempt

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40

Job FTE: 1.0

Work Calendar: Fiscal

Job Category: Research

Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay: $47,356 - $59,195

Compensation Type: salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Grade: 6

Compensation Guidance:

The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.

The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.

Career Stream and Level: PC1

Job Family: Researchers & Scientists

Job Function: Research

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Security and Fire Safety Report

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University's campuses. Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.

Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at [e-mail].

Contact Information for Candidates

Sara Burke, Ph.D.
Department Head and Professor, Neuroscience
[e-mail]