We’re Hiring!

The Learning, Behavior & Affective Development Lab (Principal Investigator: Dr. Heidi Meyer) at Boston University invites applications for a full-time Research Technician. The Meyer Lab is housed in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (PBS). Our lab uses behavioral, systems, and molecular neuroscience techniques in an adolescent mouse model to examine the cognitive and neurodevelopmental underpinnings of affective regulation. The Technician will be under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, who will provide general directions after which the individual will work independently and/or provide procedure and research support to the research team (including the Principal Investigator, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students). Competitive applicants will have at least one year experience in a neuroscience lab. Applicants from underrepresented and historically marginalized backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply. For more information about the Meyer Lab, please visit meyerlabneuro.com.

Primary responsibilities, in order of importance, will include:

·       Mouse colony monitoring - account for transgenic lines and prepare samples for genotyping, monitor breeding pairs, track status of pregnant mice, wean pups; cage changing, feeding, and weighing mice as necessary.

·       Mouse behavioral assays - carry out mouse handling and behavioral procedures (Pavlovian and instrumental conditioning, behavioral tests of locomotion and exploration)

·       General lab management - oversee and assist with day-to-day activities of the research lab as required (including administrative tasks). Oversee maintenance of equipment. Clean, organize, and maintain laboratory space. Inventory laboratory supplies and chemicals and track ordering details for replacement supplies as necessary. Routinely monitor special waste (chemicals, sharps, glass) and arrange for appropriate disposal.

·       Histological analyses - perform histology, tissue sectioning, immunohistochemistry, and microscopy on mouse brain tissue.

·       Stereotaxic surgery - assist with preparation for and/or carry out stereotaxic surgical procedures, including intracranial viral infusions and implants. Monitor mice during postsurgical recovery period.

·       Data organization - perform data collection, maintain and organize data spreadsheets, assist with data analysis.

Minimum qualifications:

·       Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, psychology, or related fields

·       Previous experience in a lab

Preferred qualifications:

·       Experience with animal behavior, stereotaxic surgery, and/or histological analysis is preferred (additional training will be provided directly by Dr. Heidi Meyer)

·       Experience using statistical software (e.g., SPSS or R)

·       An ability to work independently

·       Organizational and time management skills

This is a one year position with possibility for renewal (contingent on performance). Salary will be based on Boston University’s salary scales and commensurate with experience. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and position will remain open until filled.

To apply, please submit the following to Heidi Meyer (hcmeyer@bu.edu).

1.     Cover letter stating your research interests, future goals, and why you want to join the lab

2.     Ideal start date

3.     CV or resume

4.     Contact information for 2 or more references