Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

The Optical Brain Dynamics Laboratory at WashU in St. Louis is seeking a highly motivated researcher to join a multidisciplinary team developing next-generation optical tools for large-scale neural circuit analysis. The position will involve assisting with the application of genetically encoded sensors, imaging methods, and in vivo experimental approaches to study brain-wide neural dynamics underlying behavior.

Our lab integrates protein engineering, systems neuroscience, and cutting-edge imaging technologies (e.g., fiber photometry, photoacoustic imaging, and two-photon microscopy) to address fundamental questions in brain function and dysfunction. This role offers the opportunity to work in a highly collaborative and innovative environment with strong institutional support and access to state-of-the-art facilities.

Job Description

• Assists with the preparation and application of genetically encoded sensors and viral delivery strategies, including stereotaxic injection, in in vitro and in vivo systems. 

• Assists with executing experiments to investigate neural circuit function in rodent models using optical imaging and molecular tools.

• Performs data acquisition using techniques such as fiber photometry, microscopy, and related imaging platforms, followed by quantitative data analysis and interpretation.

• Assists with research studies, experiments and assays, including collection of data, preparation of solutions and setup and maintenance of equipment.

• Collaborates with multidisciplinary team members to integrate experimental and computational approaches, maintains accurate records of experimental procedures and results, and assists with lab activities supporting manuscript and grant preparation.

• Supports the onboarding of junior lab members and ensures compliance with institutional and regulatory guidelines for animal and laboratory research.

• Prepares tissue cultures, reagents, probe tests, etc.

• Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.

• Ensures lab conditions and equipment are properly cleaned and maintained in accordance with established procedures.

• Assists with general lab maintenance and cleaning.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:

• This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. 

• The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.

Certifications/Professional Licenses:

No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.

Work Experience:

No specific work experience is required for this position.

Skills:

Not Applicable

Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This Job

The ideal candidate will have up to one year of experience in a laboratory setting.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

No additional education unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Certifications/Professional Licenses:

No additional certification/professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Work Experience:

No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Skills:

Communication, Detailed Reports, Detail-Oriented, Laboratory Instrumentation, Laboratory Research, MATLAB Programming, Organizing, Python (Programming Language), Software Program, Time Management, Work Collaboratively, Working Independently

Grade

R06-H

Salary Range

$16.92 - $26.44 / Hourly

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

• Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.

• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.

• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, citizenship (where prohibited by federal law), age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.