The Saunders Lab at the University of Minnesota () is recruiting a full-time research technician. As part of the Medical Discovery Team on Addiction () and Department of Neuroscience, we are embedded in a vibrant neuroscience research community that offers many opportunities for training and career development. The lab investigates the neural circuit mechanisms of motivation during reward seeking, and how these processes are altered in psychiatric disease states, like addiction. We use a variety of state-of-the-art techniques for mapping, controlling, and measuring the activity of neural circuits, including optogenetics, pharmacology, calcium imaging, and immunohistochemistry and microscopy, in rodents. These methods are integrated with detailed assessment of behavior in conditioning paradigms of natural (i.e., food) reward and drug seeking, to identify how brain circuits represent and control motivated behavior. We are looking for an enthusiastic new team member to help advance this research.

Job Duties Include:

40%
Technical research support: Animal husbandry, breeding and welfare (necessitating occasional work on weekends), preparation of solutions, assistance with intracranial surgeries, necroscopy, brain sectioning, immunohistochemistry, slide preparation and microscopy, maintenance of detailed laboratory records.

30%
General laboratory support: Order and maintain inventory of common supplies for the laboratory, maintain equipment in working order, sterilize supplies as needed, keep records of protocols and standard operating procedures. Work with staff to ensure compliance with university and federal safety regulations. Assist in the supervision and training of undergraduate students. Assist in preparation for lab safety and animal welfare inspections.

30%
Independent research: Execute a research project related to the neural and behavioral processes underlying motivated behavior under the supervision of the PI and/or a senior laboratory member. Maintain detailed records of all experiments and procedures in lab notebooks as well as in online databases and project management tools. Review relevant scientific literature and present findings periodically in meetings and in writing.

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Required:

• BS/BA in neuroscience, psychology, or related field or combination of education and experience to equal 4 years.
• Some research experience with rats or mice is required.
• Strong organizational and communications skills, proactive, detail oriented, and able to work as part of a team.

Preferred:

• Research experience with behavioral/systems neuroscience research.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

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The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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