Description
We are seeking a full-time Research Assistants I to join Dr. Zirong Gu in his lab. This position will provide technical assistant for various research projects and conduct research activities according to research protocol. These individuals will play a crucial role in conducting neurobiological experiments, managing our mouse colony, performing genotyping, and undertaking lab-related administrative duties.
The Gu Lab focuses on exploring how basal ganglia outputs interact with other brain regions to select, initiate, and execute motivated behavior in both health and disease. To accomplish this, we employ a range of advanced techniques, including single-cell/nucleus RNA sequencing, sophisticated viral tracing, machine learning-assisted mapping and reconstruction of brain-wide circuitry, behavioral clustering, cell-type and action-specific Cal-light tagging, closed-loop optogenetic manipulation, calcium imaging, and neuropixels recordings. Our aim is to elucidate the mechanisms at the circuit level that underpin basal ganglia function and its dysfunctions, with the ultimate goal of identifying novel therapeutic targets for a spectrum of diseases related to the basal ganglia, such as addiction, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Parkinson's Disease.
The Gu Lab provides a vibrant, supportive, and collaborative research environment conducive to professional growth. We welcome driven individuals keen on making significant contributions to neuroscience research, and we seek a commitment of at least two years to ensure continuity and progress in research. Interested applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and a cover letter/letter of application.
Minimum Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in one of the basic sciences or an equivalent combination of education and experience in customer service or in daily interactions in a public services environment.
Preferred Education and Experience
PREFERRED:
- Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, biology, or a closely related field.
- A readiness to work with mice; prior experience in mice handling and colony management is advantageous but not mandatory.
- Previous laboratory research experience in neuroscience or molecular biology is desirable. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of basic molecular biology (e.g., genotyping PCR) techniques.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Perform neurobiology experiments and rodent surgeries.
- Maintain the mouse colony, including record-keeping and timed matings.
- Assist with administrative tasks such as ordering supplies and equipment maintenance.
- Work independently and collaboratively within the research team.
- Commit to a minimum of two years to ensure continuity and progress in research.
- Other duties as assigned.
Essential Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Work independently and collaboratively within the research team.
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in written and oral communication.
- Resourcefulness, self-motivation, excellent time management, and a collaborative spirit.
Additional Information
Travel:
This position may be subject to occasional travel for conferences or for training and/or research needs.
Work Notice:
Work will be performed on-site and in person.
What We Can Offer
UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer an employee-friendly work environment with a comprehensive benefit package including:
Competitive Salary
Tuition Benefits
Internal Training
Medical insurance – including 100% paid employee medical coverage for full-time employees
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Long and short-term disability
Retirement Plan Options
Paid time off
Paid Holidays All UT Dallas employees have access to various professional development opportunities, including a membership to Academic Impressions, LinkedIn Learning, and UT Dallas Bright Leaders Program.
Visit https://hr.utdallas.edu/employees/benefits/ for more information.
About Us
UT Dallas is a top public research university located in one of the nation's fastest-growing metropolitan regions. Our seven schools offer more than 140 undergraduate and graduate programs, plus professional certificates and fast-track programs. Our student body is 31,000 strong, reflecting students from over 100 countries and a multiplicity of identities and experiences. UT Dallas is committed to graduating well-rounded members of the global community whose education has prepared them for rewarding lives and productive careers in a constantly changing world.
The University has a variety of programs and initiatives to support engagement and success for all members of the campus community. Employee benefits include a range of physical and mental wellness resources. “LilyPad” lactation facilities are located throughout the campus. There are several Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) comprised of individuals who share common interests to help build community among UT Dallas faculty and staff (e.g., Universal Access ERG, Military and Veteran ERG, UT Dallas Young Professionals).
Rich with visual and performing arts venues, museum districts, professional and semi-professional athletics teams, botanical gardens, accessible trails and so much more, the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) metroplex has something for everyone to explore. UT Dallas partners with regional higher education institutions and school districts and with the Richardson Innovation Quarter (Richardson IQ), a major hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and educational activities.
Important Message
1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public.
2) The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. EOE, including disability/veterans. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.
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