LAB AST 2 (Laboratory Assistant)

The Center for Neuroscience conducts research in the areas of molecular, cellular, systems, cognitive, and computational neuroscience and trains graduate and undergraduate students in neuroscience and related fields.

Job Summary

Under supervision and following appropriate guidelines and protocols for all tasks, handle and transport mice; assist in behavioral training and testing, record data and keep records; assist with rodent survival surgery and cannula implantations, intracardial perfusions, tissue slicing, immunohistochemistry, fiber photometry, optogenetics, and confocal/epifluorescence imaging of fixed tissue; maintain mouse colony and perform tissue collection and genotyping; maintain laboratory and prepare solutions.
(Work hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.)

Position Information

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Kneeling - frequently, Squatting, Stooping, Bending - frequently, Standing – constantly
• Must be comfortable and have prior experience handling rodents (preferably mice).
• Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
• Work in a secure animal research area.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment policy is intended to provide a healthier, safer, and more productive work and learning environment for the entire UC community. The University of California prohibits smoking and tobacco use at all University owned or leased properties, or facilities operated by UC staff or faculty. Smoking and tobacco use are strictly prohibited in indoor and outdoor spaces, parking lots, residential space, and University vehicles. https://ucdavispolicy.ellucid.com/documents/view/271

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Education/Experience:

• Experience working in a research laboratory.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

• Ability to handle mice.
• Ability to follow protocol/instructions. Ability to follow animal care and safety standards, guidelines, and protocols
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to troubleshoot problems.
• Ability to work with computers and learn new software.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to work with others.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred Education/Experience:             

• BS in Biology, Neuroscience or related field highly desirable.
• Experience training mice on behavioral tasks.
• Experience with optogenetics
• Experience with perfusions, tissue slicing and immunohistochemistry.
• Experience with confocal imaging/image analysis

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Background Check

This position is a critical position and subject to a background check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background investigation including criminal history and identity checks. 

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At UC Davis, we’re solving life’s most urgent challenges to bring a fuller, healthier, and more resilient world within reach. We grow from every challenge we take on and we don’t just maintain - we improve. We recognize that creating an inclusive and intellectually vibrant organization means understanding and valuing both our individual differences and our common ground. The most comprehensive solutions come from the most diverse minds, and you belong here. As you consider joining UC Davis, please explore our Principles of Community , our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education, and our latest efforts to outgrow the expected . The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. 

For the University of California’s Affirmative Action Policy please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4010393/PPSM-20 . 

For the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination .