Research Assistant I, Neuroscience

WHY UT SOUTHWESTERN?
With over 75 years of excellence in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, UT Southwestern is committed to excellence, innovation, teamwork, and compassion. As a world-renowned medical and research center, we strive to provide the best possible care, resources, and benefits for our valued employees. Ranked as the number 1 hospital in Dallas-Fort Worth according to U.S. News & World Report, we invest in you with opportunities for career growth and development to align with your future goals. Our highly competitive benefits package offers healthcare, PTO and paid holidays, on-site childcare, wage, merit increases and so much more. We invite you to be a part of the UT Southwestern team where you'll discover a culture of teamwork, professionalism, and a rewarding career! 

JOB SUMMARY
Works under general direction to provide responsible and skilled technical assistance in performing assignments requiring experience and good knowledge of techniques and practices related to particular field of medical and scientific research. 

Multiple positions are available at the newly launched Liu lab at the Department of Neuroscience. Our interdisciplinary research brings together molecular, cellular, and systems approaches to study biological clocks, metabolism, and primate biology. We have opportunities for projects spanning genetics, single-cell omics, disease modeling, behavior studies, and data science. More details can be found at our lab website: https://labs.utsouthwestern.edu/liu-shixuan-lab.

We are seeking highly motivated individuals who are eager to learn. Candidates with background in any STEM field are welcome to apply. They will receive hands-on training on molecular biology, genomics, and/or computational data analysis. They will have opportunities to lead independent research projects tailored to their skills, interests, and career goals, and may participate in international research collaboration and field trips. A 2-year commitment is recommended.

Preferred qualifications:
-Bachelor’s degree or higher in a STEM field
-Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, accurate record keeping, clear communication, and a proactive, solution-oriented mindset
-Basic computer proficiency (e.g., Microsoft or Google Workspace)

Experience or interest in any of the following areas is encouraged: Computer programming and data analysis; Molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA extraction, PCR, buffer preparation); Animal handling, blood sampling, anatomy, and histology; Data management and network-attached storage (NAS) setup; Electronics and circuit design for multi-camera based automated monitoring; Ecology or field research experience

Job responsibilities will be project specific and may include:
-Bioinformatics and computational data analysis
-Preparing reagents and buffers, and running experimental assays
-Tissue sample collection, biobanking, and histology
-Coordinate with collaborators and participate in international research trips
-Animal experiments at the research colony and/or in the field
-Building an automated animal behavioral tracking system
-Assisting the PI with lab setup and organization

Prior experience in above listed areas is not required. Training will be provided, and we welcome candidates who are curious and motivated to learn.

BENEFITS
UT Southwestern is proud to offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. Our benefits are designed to support your overall wellbeing, and include:

• PPO medical plan, available day one at no cost for full-time employee-only coverage
• 100% coverage for preventive healthcare-no copay
• Paid Time Off, available day one
• Retirement Programs through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS)
• Paid Parental Leave Benefit
• Wellness programs
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer
• Learn more about these and other UTSW employee benefits!

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Required

• Education
  Master's Degree with major coursework in field of assignment and no experience required or 
  Bachelor's Degree with major coursework in field of assignment or 
  Completion of 2 years of college with emphasis in coursework in field of assignment or 
  High School Diploma or GED equivalent 
   

• Experience
  1 year Research experience at level of Research Technician or equivalent with Bachelor's degree or 
  4 years Research experience including two years at level of Research Technician or equivalent with 2 years of college or 
  6 years Research experience with High School Diploma or GED equivalent including 
  2 years at level of Research Technician or equivalent. 
   

  JOB DUTIES

• Performs more difficult scientific and medical research work in science area such as biology, chemistry, physics, or other related scientific field.
• Constructs, assembles, and operates laboratory equipment and apparatus.
• Records and evaluates data obtained from work assignments for use in scientific papers.
• Collaborates with supervisor or other research personnel in preparation of scientific papers for publication.
• Reads literature and confers with supervisor concerning procedures and implementation.
• Collects and organizes research data for project reports.
• May plan for, and provide working supervision to, work of Research Technicians or other laboratory personnel of lower grade.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

SECURITY AND EEO STATEMENT

Security
This position is security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code 51.215, which authorizes UT Southwestern to obtain criminal history record information.

EEO
UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. As an equal opportunity employer, UT Southwestern prohibits unlawful discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or veteran status.