Research Assistant | Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Behavior

Rockefeller University • New York, NY

16d • Onsite

About The Position

The Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Behavior utilizes the fruit fly Drosophila to investigate how the nervous system achieves flexibility, leading to adaptive behaviors in both individuals and species. The lab explores how learning rapidly modifies neural pathways to enable individuals to respond appropriately to their unique experiences, and how neural circuits evolve over time to produce species-specific behaviors. Employing a multidisciplinary approach from biochemistry to behavior, the lab aims to uncover the neural basis of flexible behavior at high resolution. This position is for a skilled and motivated electrophysiologist research assistant with expertise in ion channels and cellular electrophysiology. The role integrates electrophysiology, systems neuroscience, and behavior to study sensory processing from receptors to circuits and behavior. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in electrophysiological techniques, especially single-channel recording and patch-clamp electrophysiology, and will apply these to sensory receptors while also learning in vivo recording techniques. This role is suitable for individuals interested in combining biophysical methods with neuroscience and behavior to answer fundamental questions about sensory function.

Requirements

• B.A. in biology or Neurobiology is required.
• Extensive experience with single-channel, bilayer, or patch-clamp electrophysiology techniques.
• A proven ability to work collaboratively within interdisciplinary research teams.
• Strong analytical skills for data interpretation and software proficiency in electrophysiological data analysis.
• A demonstrated commitment to learning new methodologies, particularly in vivo recording techniques, to expand research scope and impact.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and time management skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and employ electrophysiological approaches (single-channel and whole cell recording methods) on sensory receptors and neurons.
• Collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team, including structural biologists, neuroscientists, and computational chemists, to integrate findings into broader research objectives.
• Contribute to publications and presentations detailing novel findings.
• Actively engage in learning and implementing in vivo recording methods to expand research skills and project capabilities.
• Participate in weekly laboratory meetings and planning sessions.
• Perform general lab maintenance and support duties as needed.
• Demonstrate attention to detail, organization, multi-tasking, and fast learning.

What This Job Offers

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