Job Description

About the Department:
Learning occurs when connections between neurons in the brain change in response to activity. The Kerlin lab (kerlinlab.org) uses new in vivo imaging techniques to track the activity and strength of individual connections (synapses) in the brains of mice learning new movements in a well-controlled task. This information allows us to model the computations within single neurons and across networks of neurons that are relevant to the acquisition of new motor skills.
Job Duties:
This position will assist the principal investigator, postdoctoral associates, and students conduct experiments on motor learning in mice. This includes the handling of mice, intracranial surgery, behavioral training, and brain imaging. The researcher will also assist with lab maintenance and administration.

70%: Laboratory Research
• Conduct or assist with experiments, as directed by other research staff.
• Perform intracranial surgery in mice, including the injection of viral vectors into the brain.
• Train mice to perform a behavioral task using custom training software.
• Conduct or assist with experiments to optically manipulate brain activity.
• Assist staff with two-photon brain imaging experiments.
• Build experimental setups under the supervision of other research staff.
• Keep detailed records of all experiments and procedures.
• Perform perfusions and histology when needed.

30%: Laboratory Management
• Order supplies and animals for the laboratory.
• Collaborate with vendors to obtain custom-manufactured parts and equipment.
• Provide administrative assistance to the principal investigator (processing reimbursements, travel arrangements, etc.).
• Assist with basic lab duties (buffer preparation, dye preparation, autoclaving, etc.).
• Help maintain regulatory documentation (e.g., controlled substances, safety, animal care) and ensure that lab equipment is in compliance with relevant regulations.
• Other duties as assigned.



Qualifications
Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, engineering, biology, chemistry or other natural or life science or a combination of related education and work experience to equal (4) years.
• Prior experience working with animals in a research setting.

Preferred:
• Pre-doctoral students, pre-medical students, and individuals from historically underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.

About the Department
The Department of Neuroscience is committed to providing excellence in research, education, and public service. The Department of Neuroscience is part of the University of Minnesota's Medical School. The Medical School and related healthcare professional schools are grouped under the Academic Health Center.

The Mission of the Department of Neuroscience

Conduct outstanding neuroscience research.
Be an educational resource to the Medical School and the University by providing neuroscience education to undergraduate, medical, dental, graduate, and post-graduate students.
Provide leadership and be a focal point for the strengthening of neuroscience across the University by enhancing research, educational, and funding opportunities.
Intentionally improve inclusivity by valuing diverse perspectives and actively supporting historically marginalized researchers, students, and neuroscience community members.
Provide a bridge for the transfer of advances in basic neuroscience into clinical practice with the goal of improving the health of the people of Minnesota.
Enhance the understanding and appreciation of neuroscience by the people of Minnesota.