Research Assistant - Neuroscience (Armbruster Lab)

Tufts University • Boston, MA

5d

About The Position

The Research Assistant will work in the Department of Neuroscience in the Armbruster Lab, which investigates how astrocytes modulate extracellular neurotransmitter and ionic concentrations around synapses under physiological conditions, with a broad focus on neurological disease and epilepsy. Research uses mouse models and electrophysiological and imaging approaches, as well as mouse behavioral and in vivo electrophysiological studies.

In collaboration with the Principal Investigator, the Research Assistant develops and modifies techniques and protocols and contributes to research design focused on the distribution and function of astrocytic K+ channels in physiological functioning. The role independently performs specialized laboratory techniques and experiments, including stereotactic rodent surgeries, microscopy, tissue preparation, immunohistochemical labeling, and imaging. The Research Assistant oversees collection and entry of results, analyzes and interprets data, and prepares summaries and materials for presentations and publications. The position may also provide work direction to others and assist with laboratory operations, maintenance, and ordering.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in science and 3–5 years of related laboratory experience, or a master’s degree and up to one year of laboratory experience.
• Experience with rodent stereotaxic surgery.
• Strong organization, attention to detail, and follow-up skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with others.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in science.
• Experience with immunohistochemical techniques.
• Experience with expansion microscopy.
• Experience with live-cell imaging.
• Experience with confocal microscopy.
• Data analysis experience.
• Knowledge of and experience with advanced laboratory techniques and procedures, data interpretation, and statistical analysis.

Responsibilities

• Conduct specialized laboratory experiments, including stereotactic rodent surgeries and microscopy.
• Prepare tissue, perform immunohistochemical labeling, and conduct imaging.
• Collaborate with the Principal Investigator on research study design and the development of techniques and protocols.
• Review results and recommend modifications to experiments and protocols when necessary.
• Oversee the collection and entry of research results.
• Analyze and interpret data and draft experimental results.
• Write summaries and materials for presentations and publications.
• May supervise or provide work direction to others in the laboratory.
• Assist with laboratory operations, maintenance, and ordering.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level