Research Engineering/Scientist Assistant

The University of Texas at Austin•Austin, TX

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Dr. Lyndsey Kirk studies the synaptic basis of age-related cognitive decline and dementia, combining animal behavior, imaging, and molecular biology to understand how synapses change across the aging brain. A core focus of the lab is serial-section electron microscopy-based 3D reconstruction of neural circuits, integrated with behavioral data. This position offers hands-on training across multiple techniques (EM tissue processing and image reconstructions, light microscopy, and animal behavior) and the opportunity to contribute to ongoing publications and grant-funded projects. Initial assignment will be for one year. Subsequent renewal of employment will be based upon performance review, progress towards research goals, and continuation of funding. This position is for 32 weekly hours. The University of Texas at Austin offers a competitive benefits package for all full-time benefits eligible staff positions.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology, or a related field.
One or more years of laboratory research experience (undergraduate research experience is acceptable).

Nice To Haves

Experience with serial-section electron microscopy-based 3D reconstruction software (e.g., PyReconstruct) preferred.
Experience conducting animal behavior research.
Proficiency in Python and/or R for statistical analysis and data visualization.

Responsibilities

Perform serial-section electron microscopy-based 3D reconstruction and synaptic/circuit annotation of neural tissue using PyReconstruct.
Execute rodent behavior experiments, and maintain associated husbandry, protocols, and data records.
Perform light microscopy-based labeling and imaging, including immunohistochemistry, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and super-resolution (dSTORM) microscopy, to characterize synaptic and cell-type-specific molecular markers, in some cases correlated with electron microscopy datasets.
Perform statistical analysis and data visualization (Python/R) of behavioral and imaging data, and assist with training and mentoring undergraduate researchers.