Research Technologist 2

Department: WCAS Neurobiology
Salary/Grade: NEX/11

Job Summary:

The Research Technologist 2 in the Dr. Hojoon Lee's Neurobiology Research Lab explores the taste system evaluates the nutritional value (sweet, umami, salty) and safety (bitter, sour) of food. Since this assessment is critical for the survival of the animal, taste cues immediately cause stereotypical behaviors (attraction vs aversion) and evoke innate affect (pleasure vs disgust). Taste information is detected by taste receptor cells (TRCs) on the tongue, each one dedicated to a single taste quality, and relayed through neuronal projections that originate from geniculate/petrosal ganglia en route to the brain. Notably, TRCs are epithelial cells, with lifespans of only about two weeks, requiring precise wiring connections to be established with the correct partner neurons upon appearance of each new cell. Constant need for stem cell maintenance, TRC differentiation, wiring, and information processing presents a considerable challenge for a hardwired circuit, but surprisingly little is known about how this remarkable process is orchestrated. Our research focuses on three fundamental questions: How are new taste receptor cells made? How is the peripheral taste system wired? How do tastes evoke hardwired behaviors? For more information: https://www.hojoonlee.org/

This is a 1-year renewable position based upon performance and funding availability. This position is a FULL-TIME position at 40.0 hours per week and works on-site. The target hiring range for this position will be between $41,530 - $50,112 per year, which is $19.89 - $24.00 per hour. The salary offered will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Specific Responsibilities:

Following protocols, designs, sets up, and conducts basic experiments. Analyzes and troubleshoots protocols and data obtained from individual experiments and recommends alternatives and suggestions to improve processes, validity and/or accuracy. Assists in developing experimental apparatuses and coding experimental control software. Using a fully functioning level of skill, completes the following activities:

Molecular Biology:

• DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression; PCR, RT-PCR; Plasmid preparation; Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA

Cellular Biology:

• Cell culture, cell isolation

Histology:

• Tissue fixation/processing: embedding, preparation of blocks and sectioning, staining; Immunohistochemistry; Microscopy
• Immunology:
• Flow cytometry

Animal include:

• Husbandry; Breeding and screening transgenic mice; Dissections; Surgical procedures; Database management of colony

Administration:

• Observes experiments, collects, records, summarizes, analyzes, and interprets research data. Collates relevant mathematical results. Performs scientific literature searches in support of research. Completes portions of grant applications, manuscripts & publications.

Supervision:

• Trains and directs other lab new hires and/or students in research techniques and procedures;

Miscellaneous

Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Successful completion of a full course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a master's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR an appropriate combination of education and experience and 1 year lab/bench or other relevant experience.

Preferred Competencies:

• Demonstrated laboratory experience; Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions as required by research protocols; Demonstrated computer skills, including spreadsheets and basic computations; Attention to detail and accurate record keeping; Ability to work independently and in a team environment; Manual dexterity.

Benefits:

At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.

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