Research Specialist

State-of-South-Carolina; South Carolina; On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

University of South Carolina in Columbia is seeking a highly motivated Research Specialist to support grant-funded projects in the Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience. The role focuses on studying synaptic transmission in brain circuits using cutting-edge techniques.

Candidates with a strong background in neuroscience or related fields and interest in biomedical research are invited to apply.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Biochemistry/Chemical Biology, Psychology, Pharmacology, or a related field
• Experience handling rodents and with rodent behavioral tests
• Experience with microscopy

Skills

Rodent handling

Rodent behavioral tests

Microscopy

Education

Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Biochemistry/Chemical Biology, Psychology, Pharmacology, or a related field

Tools

Microscopy techniques

Job description

Research Specialist

Department: SOMC Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience

Part/Full Time: Full Time

Advertised Salary Range:About UofSC

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Advertised Job SummaryA highly-motivated research assistant with interest in Neuroscience and Pharmacology is sought to work on grant-supported projects in the lab of Dr. David Mott in the Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience within the University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Candidates will use cutting-edge techniques to study and understand how synaptic transmission between excitatory and inhibitory nerve cells in the brain is modified as a result of experience. Previous research experience is preferred but not required. All dedicated candidates interested in gaining research experience prior to applying to graduate or medical school or interested in pursuing careers in biomedical research at academic, pharmaceutical, or biotech institutions are welcome to apply. Preference will be given to enthusiastic and passionate candidates with strong problem-solving skills who have demonstrated an ability to work as part of a team. The individual will demonstrate commitment to conducting business lawfully and ethically by consistently adhering to compliance policies, procedures, and regulations. This position is established in support of expanded research activities.

• Understand policies, procedures, and regulations. Conduct business lawfully and ethically by consistently adhering to compliance

• Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Biochemistry/Chemical Biology, Psychology, Pharmacology, or a related field
• Experience handling rodents and with rodent behavioral tests
• Experience with microscopy

Job Close Date09/30/2026

Special Instructions to Applicant: Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending on a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email. We are only accepting applications submitted by September 30, 2026.

The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities on the basis of race, sex, gender, gender identity, transgender status, age, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetics, protected veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions.

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