Postgraduate Research Associate, Systems Neuroscience

Position Summary

The Che lab at Yale Psychiatry (thechelab.org) has an opening for a postgraduate research associate position. Under supervision, he/she/they will assist scientists with laboratory and investigative procedures. Candidates with a strong background in Behavioral and/or Systems Neuroscience and experience with mouse model systems are encouraged to apply (but not required). Strong quantitative background is a plus. Please send a CV, the name and contact information of 3 references to alicia.che@yale.edu. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on research experience during gap year(s) before applying for graduate school. Find below a detailed description of the position.

Job Responsibilities

• Responsible for animal husbandry, genotyping, surgeries, post-operative care, behavioral testing, sectioning and histology.
• Perform behavioral testing in mice.
• Learn to perform stereotaxic surgeries and in vivo imaging experiments.
• Perform some data analyses using computer software. 
• Perform routine molecular biology laboratory procedures, such as PCR, protein and DNA electrophoresis, cloning and DNA preparation.
• Responsible for the receipt, storage, cataloguing and shipment of samples within and between institutions.
• Maintain inventory of supplies, equipment and/or reagents. Order supplies/equipment/reagents as authorized or ensure that needs are escalated appropriately.
• Ensure a clean working area and is responsible for washing and storing glassware.
• Ensure the safe laboratory practices are followed, including the use and disposal of chemicals and hazardous materials.
• Perform provide technical support to faculty and staff including training of new employees, residents, postdoctoral associates, fellows and students.
• Participate in planning and carrying out experiments and will assist in preparing research protocols.
• Participate conduct library research and literature searches using various computer systems and will assist in editing scientific publications, abstracts and posters.
• Receive supply orders and confirms accuracy of delivery and assist with cost control.
• Ensure that facilities and equipment are in optimal and proper working condition.
• Coordinate preventative maintenance and repairs as needed. Perform minor repairs if qualified and as needed and may advise on upgrades for performance enhancements.
• Help prepare and maintain detailed records, logs and summary reports of procedures and results including graphs, scientific calculations, and statistical analysis charting.
• May run routine biochemistry assays including western blotting and RT-PCR.
• May perform microscopic imaging analyses.

Education

     Bachelor's Degree (preferable with emphasis in Neurobiology/Neuroscience)

Experience

• Previous experience with mouse model system
• Bench lab related experience
• Minimum two-year commitment due to a substantial training effort associated with the position

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated organizational skills and ability to pay close attention to detail.
•  Ability to plan and prioritize work while responding flexibly to rapidly changing priorities.