Lab Assistant I, Neurosciences - 142054

The Chattree Lab in UC San Diego's Department of Neurosciences studies how brain cell types and circuits contribute to movement and cognition in Parkinson's disease and related neurological disorders, with the goal of developing more precise therapies. Led by Gaurav Chattree, MD, a movement-disorders neurologist and physician-scientist, the lab combines mouse behavior, optical imaging, targeted circuit manipulation, and molecular analysis of brain tissue.

Under the PI's supervision, the Laboratory Assistant I assists with established mouse behavioral, surgical, imaging, histological, and molecular procedures and supports day-to-day laboratory operations. As an early lab member, the assistant helps establish organized records, inventories, and experimental workflows. Training will be provided in lab-specific techniques, with responsibilities matched to demonstrated skills. Applicants do not need experience in every method. The role includes close interaction with the PI, discussion of research findings, and mentorship connecting circuit neuroscience with questions arising in clinical neurology.

• Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and one year of laboratory experience; or two years of college including courses in the natural, physical or social sciences; or an equivalent combination of education and experience, with the knowledge and abilities essential to the assigned duties.

• Foundational knowledge of biology, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, or a related discipline through coursework, training, or equivalent experience.

• Willingness to learn laboratory techniques under supervision and work with mice in accordance with approved protocols and animal-welfare requirements.

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, carry out established procedures carefully, and maintain accurate records and notebooks.

• Organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage samples, supplies, and experimental schedules.

• Ability to communicate clearly, work cooperatively with others, discuss research results, and seek guidance when procedures or results are unclear.

• Basic computer skills for recording data, organizing files, and using spreadsheets; willingness to learn laboratory software and safe equipment handling.

• Experience with laboratory organization, inventory, reagent preparation, equipment maintenance, or research-protocol documentation.

• Prior experience with mouse handling strongly preferred, colony maintenance, genotyping, or behavioral experiments. Candidates with strong potential who require additional training will also be considered.

• Experience assisting with stereotaxic surgery, viral injections, cranial windows, or postoperative animal care.

• Experience with histology, immunostaining, fluorescence microscopy, or in situ hybridization.

• Experience with calcium imaging, two-photon microscopy, or basic analysis of imaging or behavioral data, including Python or MATLAB.

• Must be willing to work with mice and biological materials under approved protocols and complete required animal-research and laboratory safety training.

• Must be available for occasional evening or weekend work to meet animal-care and experimental needs.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs.