Technical Research Assistant

The Haber lab seeks a scientifically minded individual with excellent organizational and analytic skills to join our group as a technical research assistant (RA). Working under the general supervision of a Research Fellow, Instructor, and/or Principal Investigator and following established policies and procedures, the RA will assist in research focused on understanding the postnatal development of circuits that underlie the reward system and decision-making. These studies focus specifically on brain regions in which abnormal connectivity has been linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, and addiction.

The successful candidate will conduct a variety of combined microscopy/histological analyses with quantitative and computational pipelines to delineate and model pathways and connections between brain regions in the adult brain and during postnatal development. Applicants should have a strong interest in preclinical and translational neuroscience. Good computational skills and basic/intermediate proficiency in Python, Matlab, or similar are preferred.

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, and transcripts.

The Haber lab is a translational neuroscience laboratory that uses a multidisciplinary approach to delineate anatomic connections of the prefrontal cortex, limbic system, and basal ganglia that underlie motivation and decision-making. We use this data to develop connectivity profiles in the human brain, with a particular focus on how circuit abnormalities are related to specific connections in obsessive-compulsive disorder, addiction, and depression. We use a combination of anatomic tracing data, computational tools, and imaging (diffusion MRI and resting state MRI in both animals and humans) to model neural network interactions. The successful applicant will join a vibrant and collaborative laboratory and scientific community at McLean Hospital.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

* Perform a variety of routine tests following established methodologies
* Prepare and maintain tissue cultures
* Record data; summarize and analyze results using basic statistic
* Prepare lab reagents, chemicals, instruments and equipment
* May prepare radioactive and non-radioactive samples for lipid analysis
* May perform independent literature searches as directed
* May assist in the basic design and modification of protocols

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

* Computer literacy
* Knowledge of research protocols
* Ability to methodically record data and to analyze data using statistics
* Good interpersonal skills; detail oriented
* Ability to demonstrate professionalism
* Ability to perform routine tests and to prioritize work

EDUCATION:

* BA or BS (required)

EXPERIENCE:

* Some lab experience desirable but not required

* Undergraduate coursework or projects may be considered as appropriate experience and may be credited upon hire

McLean is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.