Research Technician I (Time-Limited) - Anesthesiology

Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University in St. Louis

USD 16.54-22.35 / hour
Posted on May 9, 2025

Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

The Copits lab in the Department of Anesthesiology at WashU Medicine is recruiting a highly motivated candidate for a full-time Research Technician I position.

We study how different types of somatosensory neurons are assembled into functional circuits and how these processes go awry in chronic pain. Our research bridges work in model organisms with complementary approaches using human nervous system tissue to understand how pain conditions may arise in people. In the lab we use a variety of techniques including transcriptional profiling with CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, opto/chemogenetics, electrophysiology, in vivo imaging, and behavioral phenotyping.

The position will assist in the development of new genetic constructs to manipulate neuronal function and synaptic connectivity. The candidate is expected to perform research experiments, data analysis and assist others in the lab with ongoing projects.

This is a time limited position of up to 12 months.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

For more information on the lab, please visit https://copitslab.wustl.edu/.

  • Assists the investigator or higher-level technician with research studies, experiments and assays, including collection of data, preparation of solutions and setup and maintenance of equipment.
  • Primary cell culture, histology, and imaging of mouse nervous system tissue.
  • Assists with managing transgenic mouse colony and performing small animal procedures.
  • Assures compliance with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen inventory.
  • Maintains files on research and assists with data entry.
  • Assists with general lab maintenance and cleaning.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:

  • Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
  • Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education:

High school diploma or equivalent high school certification or combination of education and/or experience.


Certifications:

No specific certification is required for this position.


Work Experience:

No specific work experience is required for this position.


Skills:

Not Applicable


Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This Job

WashU seeks highly motivated individuals who are able to perform duties in a manner consistent with our core mission and guiding principles.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

No additional education beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.


Certifications:

No additional certification beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.


Work Experience:

No additional work experience beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Skills:

Detailed Reports, Histology, MATLAB, Molecular Biology, Mouse Handling, Primary Neuronal Cultures, Python (Programming Language), Python for Data Analysis, Software Program

Grade

R04-H

Salary Range

$16.54 - $22.35 / HourlyThe salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

  • Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

  • Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

  • Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.

  • WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

  • Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

  • We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.

  • WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.Washington University is dedicated to building a community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.