Research Lab Technician (TEMP)

University of Central Florida • Orlando, FL

23h • Onsite

About The Position

The Calarco Lab, part of the Neuroscience Research Division within the Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Central Florida’s Lake Nona Campus, is seeking a Research Lab Technician. The lab's mission is to understand how the brain adapts to rewarding stimuli and how these adaptations contribute to drug-seeking behaviors, with a focus on mitochondria and cellular metabolism in neurons. Current projects involve identifying gene targets, characterizing mitochondrial responses to drugs and supplements, and examining dietary influences on reward-seeking behaviors. The lab utilizes sophisticated behavioral analyses in mouse models combined with neuroscience, molecular biology, and genomic techniques.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Science, Neuroscience, Psychology, Biology, or a related field.
• 1 year of research experience of any kind.
• Authorized to work for any U.S. employer.
• Reside in Florida as of the date the employment begins.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated background in general laboratory maintenance and organization, including managing lab supplies and performing routine equipment upkeep.
• Experience working with laboratory animals, particularly mice.
• Proficiency in organizing, maintaining, and ensuring the integrity of laboratory data.
• Knowledge of behavioral neuroscience techniques and principles.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to adapt to changing work situations and assignments.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to general lab maintenance and organization.
• Oversee lab supplies and routine equipment maintenance.
• Manage and maintain a mouse breeding colony.
• Maintain accurate records of animal colony census, experimental procedures, and data.
• Conduct behavioral experiments with mice, including operant conditioning, dietary manipulations, drug exposure, and drug self-administration.
• Perform survival surgeries, including intracranial stereotaxic injections and implantation of jugular vein catheters.
• Collect and analyze behavioral data using specialized software.
• Assist with molecular biology techniques, such as tissue processing, immunohistochemistry, gene expression analysis, and confocal microscopy.
• Attend regular lab meetings and present research progress.
• Meet regularly with Dr. Calarco to report work progress and any other issues relevant to lab operation.

Benefits

• State Benefits eligibility for OPS employees are subject to criteria established by the State of Florida. The state’s benefits administrator, People First, determines eligibility and coordinates enrollment. If this position becomes eligible for state benefits the employee will be notified directly by People First.
• OPS positions are not entitled to paid time off.

What This Job Offers

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