UNIV - Research Specialist II - Department of Neurosciences

Medical University of South Carolina • Charleston, SC

4d

About The Position

The Flanigan Lab at the Medical University of South Carolina is seeking a Research Specialist II to work as a technician supporting research on social behaviors in mouse models of addiction, depression, and sleep dysfunction. The laboratory uses circuit neuroscience techniques including fiber photometry, opto/chemogenetics, electrophysiology, anatomical tracing, in-situ hybridization, and transcriptomic analyses. Experience with every technique is not required; enthusiasm for research and learning new skills is expected.

The role is suited to an organized, detail-oriented, self-motivated person with basic knowledge of biomedical research techniques and neuroscience fundamentals. It may be a good opportunity for a recent STEM graduate seeking research experience before graduate or medical school. The position offers opportunities to develop skills, contribute to research manuscripts, and, if desired, lead an independent research project. The successful candidate will help establish lab practices and contribute to the working environment, collaborating with others and working independently as needed. The ideal candidate can start in or before January 2027.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or another natural, life, or health care science.
• One year of work experience directly related to the assigned research area.
• Basic knowledge of biomedical research techniques and neuroscience fundamentals.
• Ability to work flexibly as part of a team and independently when necessary.
• Ability to work rotating shifts and overtime as required.
• Ability to learn and use new processes, tools, and equipment as required.
• Physical ability to perform the listed job functions, including frequent movement and lifting or handling specified materials and equipment, and qualification for respirator use initially and annually.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in mouse neuroscience research.
• Enthusiasm for research and learning new skills.
• Experience with circuit neuroscience techniques such as fiber photometry, opto/chemogenetics, electrophysiology, anatomical tracing, in-situ hybridization, or transcriptomic analyses.

Responsibilities

• Maintain laboratory supplies and consumables; clean laboratory and animal behavior spaces and glassware; autoclave surgical supplies; place and track supply and equipment orders; and balance lab finances.
• Assist with basic husbandry care for breeding and experimental animals; monitor, cull, and rehouse mouse lines as needed to support research and maintain colony populations.
• Conduct mouse behavioral experiments, including alcohol drinking and operant alcohol self-administration, locomotion, depression- and anxiety-related, and social behavior studies.
• Perform intracranial mouse surgeries for opto/chemogenetics, anatomical tracing, gene manipulation, and fiber photometry experiments.
• Collect tissue and conduct assays including immunohistochemistry, in-situ hybridization, qPCR, and RNAseq; keep standard laboratory solutions stocked and refreshed.
• Work with the PI to maintain institutional approvals and best practices for chemical hazards, laboratory safety, animal welfare, and controlled substances.

What This Job Offers

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