Research Technician II, Neurology

UT Southwestern Medical Center • Dallas, TX

17h

About The Position

Works under minimal supervision to provide responsible technical assistance in performance of assignments requiring basic knowledge of techniques and practices related to particular field of science.

The Research Technician II will support Dr. Bartelt’s laboratory, which focuses on single-cell functional genomics, neurodegeneration, and gene therapy development. This role assists with AAV plasmid cloning, single-cell sequencing workflows, and mouse colony management. The position also supports daily lab operations, data analysis, and documentation. Ideal candidates will have hands-on molecular biology and rodent experience, along with an interest in advanced genomic technologies relevant to research on epigenetic mechanisms underlying spinocerebellar ataxias.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• At least one year of laboratory experience (molecular biology, neuroscience, or related research).
• Experience with standard molecular biology techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA/RNA extraction.
• Basic experience with rodent handling or willingness to work with animal models.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation and follow established laboratory protocols.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Bachelor's Degree With major coursework in field of assignment and no experience or
• Two (2) years of college with emphasis in coursework in field of assignment or
• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• No experience required with Bachelor's Degree or
• 2 years of laboratory experience at level of Laboratory Technical Assistant or equivalent with two (2) years of college or
• 4 years of laboratory experience including two years at level of Laboratory Technical Assistant or equivalent with High School Graduation or GED equivalent

Nice To Haves

• Experience with AAV plasmid cloning and molecular biology techniques (PCR, qPCR, DNA/RNA isolation).
• Hands-on experience with mouse handling, colony management, and genotyping.
• Familiarity with single-cell sequencing workflows or spatial genomic techniques.
• Basic analytical skills using GraphPad Prism, R, Python, or similar tools.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documentation.
• Demonstrated troubleshooting skills and ability to adapt to evolving research needs.
• Interest or background in neurodegeneration, gene therapy, or epigenetics.

Responsibilities

• Perform high-efficiency cloning and purification of AAV plasmids for functional genomic assays.
• Assist with single-cell sequencing workflows, including nuclear isolation, library preparation, and reagent optimization.
• Manage mouse colony activities—including breeding, weaning, genotyping—and assist with tissue harvesting.
• Maintain lab operations by placing orders, managing inventory, and ensuring essential reagents are stocked.
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and documentation of research data.
• Perform basic data analysis and visualization for reports and manuscripts.
• Review scientific literature and discuss innovative molecular and genomic methods with the PI.
• Performs routine scientific and medical research work in science area such as biology, chemistry, physics, or other related scientific field.
• Assembles and/or operates various laboratory equipment and apparatus.
• Records research data in accordance with prescribed procedures, discussing results with supervisor.
• Assists in collection of data for project reports.
• Reads literature and confers with supervisor concerning implementation of new procedures.
• May plan for, and provide working supervision to, work of laboratory personnel of lower grade engaged in limited phase of research project.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• PPO medical plan, available day one at no cost for full-time employee-only coverage
• 100%25 coverage for preventive healthcare-no copay
• Paid Time Off, available day one
• Retirement Programs through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS)
• Paid Parental Leave Benefit
• Wellness programs
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer

What This Job Offers

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