Department: MED-Psych & Behavioral Science

Salary/Grade: NEX/9

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated, team-oriented, intellectually curios research assistant to join our lab studying the effect of stress on the brain using modern neuroscience techniques in mouse and cellular models. Our research is focused on elucidating the mechanisms by which stress increases susceptibility to develop mental illness and validating novel therapeutic approaches to treat stress-related psychiatric disorders. A successful candidate will 1) conducts behavioral, surgical, and physiological experiments on mice with appropriate supervision after training; 2) assists with general laboratory maintenance including preparation of experimental reagents, ordering, inventory, and general animal care. Position perfect for those seeking to go on to medical or graduate school and those seeking intensive research experience associated with publications.

Specific Responsibilities

• Follows pre-defined protocols, policies, procedure, regulations, Good Clinical and Good Laboratory Practices and conducts standard and repetitive experiments and completes basic trouble-shooting techniques.
• Sets-up, operates and maintains standard lab equipment.
• Using an entry level of skill, completes the following activities:
• Records test results, analyzes data and keeps records of work completed
• Maintains inventory of reagents, mice and lab supplies, makes reagents
• Orders reagents and mice, assists with animal protocol amendments
  
  

Histology

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

Animal

• Husbandry Dissections Blood collection
• Surgical procedures
  
  

Other (please Specify)

• Mouse behavioral tests of anxiety and depression
• Mouse models of learning and memory
• Imaging of neuronal activity in mice Completing transcranial surgery in mice
  
  

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: (Education, experience, and any other certifications or clearances)

• HS diploma or equivalent and some basic science courses is required.
  
  

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Experience with rodent behavior/handling in the research laboratory setting
  
  

Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience)

• Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, biology, or related area
  
  

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Experience in neuroscience research using mouse models, experience with mouse behavior, mouse intracranial surgery
  
  

Target hiring range for this position will be between $17.05 - 23.98 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant’s education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Benefits

At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! 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 .