HS Research Tech 3

The Department of Neurosciences seeks an enthusiastic, motivated Health Sciences Research Tech 3 to work within the Preclinical Core of the Center for Brain Recovery and Repair. The Preclinical Core provides resources and support for multiple investigators seeking to integrate interdisciplinary approaches to assess brain plasticity and repair in rodent models of neurological disorders. This position will be under the direct supervision of the Preclinical Core Manager but will involve interacting with multiple research labs utilizing the Preclinical Core Facility.
Duties of this position include (but not limited to) assisting principal investigators with the following a) slide scanning and image analysis b) behavioral assays in mouse models of neurological disease, c) stereotaxic surgery d) preparation of tissue for histological analysis including immunostaining and microscopic documentation.  Additional duties include assisting the Preclinical Core Manager with day-to-day operations including scheduling core usage, ordering supplies, and maintaining stocks of reagents used in the preclinical core facility, and standard equipment maintenance. We are particularly interested in candidates who have an interest in running our Axioscan Fluorescence Slide Scanner and helping investigators navigate analysis of digital images, using Imaristm, Halotm, Q-path and Image J Image analysis software.  Opportunities exist for on-the-job training in advanced behavioral, physiological and microscopic techniques.

This position offers outstanding benefits including generous annual leave and tuition remission for courses at UNM.  Please see benefits link for more details (https://hr.unm.edu/benefits).

The Department of Neurosciences is a basic science research department with a diverse staff working to provide quality work in an organized, effective and efficient manner through innovation, training, and education.  Through our collaborative work effort, we support the faculty, research staff and students to enhance the missions of the Department, the School of Medicine, the Health Sciences Center and UNM.

The Health Sciences Research Tech 3 will perform a range of standard to moderately advanced and complex research assignments, under detailed and controlled protocol parameters, in a health sciences laboratory. Conducts a variety of tests and procedures of an advanced, technically complex nature; prepares data, samples, and/or specimens, and sets up and operates moderately complex and/or advanced laboratory equipment. Independently conducts assignments and provides initial summary analyses to investigators; may provide specific guidance and training to entry-level technicians and/or interns. 

General duties and responsibilities include coordinating the set up and quality control of routine to complex scientific experiments, tests, and/or field studies, within general protocol parameters. Independently compiles, manipulates, and analyzes research data and prepares preliminary reports, summary analyses, and interpretations of results for investigators. Selects, modifies, and/or adapts equipment or procedures to specific project requirements; may participate in the design of routine experiments and/or testing instruments and procedures. Participates or provides input as appropriate into the development and/or coordination of specific research and/or data analysis protocols. Oversees and coordinates the utilization and maintenance of research facilities, equipment, and supplies. Teaches, instructs, and/or updates others in laboratory research techniques and equipment usage.  May provide functional direction to consultants and lower level technicians on assigned work.  Practices safety, environmental, and/or infection control methods.  Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

This is a full-time position with eligible benefits

See the Position Description for additional information.

• For individual positions in which driving is a job requirement, a valid NM driver's license and valid UNM driver's permit will be required.
• Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
• Annual TB testing may be required if working in a patient care area.

High school diploma or GED; at least 5 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Bachelor's in Biology, Neuroscience, Biochemistry, or Health Sciences field

Completion of college level Biology and Chemistry courses

Experience working in a pre-clinical laboratory research setting

Basic knowledge and understanding of scientific research methodology

Ability to analyze and interpret statistical data

Experience working with laboratory animals, particularly rodent models of neurological disorders

Behavioral neuroscience assays

Experience with the following techniques: Immunohistochemistry, optogenetics, molecular biology

Experience with computer software and data management

Proficiency in Matlab coding techniques and general data analysis software

Strong interpersonal skills

Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.

Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.

The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html . Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.