Research Assistant - Neuroscience Research

Kennedy Krieger Institute • Baltimore, MD

4d • $36,956 - $60,297

About The Position

Overview The Karigo lab in the neuroscience department at Kennedy Krieger Institute/Johns Hopkins University is looking for a full-time Research Assistant (40hrs/wk) to join our team. Our lab investigates neural mechanisms controlling social behaviors in rodent models with systems neuroscience approach. The research assistants will split their time between conducting scientific research and ensuring smooth lab operations. Approximately 50% of the role will involve maintaining our mouse colonies, organizing/restocking supplies, and ordering. The lab maintenance work will be shared between two research assistants. The other 50% will entail actively contributing to ongoing neuroscience research projects. Depending on experience levels, the candidate may also conduct an independent research project under the mentorship of the Principal Investigator. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to deeply engage in a dynamic research environment.

Requirements

• Basic background in neurobiology techniques and ability to learn new skills on the job including: rodent social behavior, circuit dissection tools (surgery, behavioral assays, histology), neural activity recordings and analysis, and how to maintain a low-stress colony environment
• Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office products such as Excel, PowerPoint, and Word to help the laboratory meet presentation and reporting goals.
• Bachelor’s degree in science-related field required (e.g., biology, neuroscience, psychology, biomedical engineering, mathematics, computer science, or physics)

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience working in a research laboratory.
• Previous experience with rodent research or tissue culture.
• Experience in coding languages such as Python, R, and MATLAB.

Responsibilities

• Help maintain animal colony and order supplies.
• Perform research techniques, protocols, and research methods under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI).
• Conduct developmental neurobiology experiments and collect data: perform surgeries, neural activity recordings, behavioral experiments, tissue processing, and data analysis.
• Develop graphs, reports, and presentations of project results.
• Oversee undergraduates in data analysis theory and implementation.
• Perform statistical analyses for projects and reports to the level of expertise.
• Help prepare publications, grants, presentations, and posters based on Karigo Lab research. Present at conferences as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level