Research Technician II

Duke Careers•Durham, NC

5d•$21 - $29•Onsite

About The Position

The Matsumani Lab is interested in the molecular mechanisms underlying chemosensation (taste and smell) in mammals. The receptors that detect odorants, pheromones, and many tastants including bitter and sweet chemicals are G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), which typically have seven transmembrane domains. The lab addresses questions regarding how tens of thousands of different chemicals interact with more than one thousand chemosensory receptors, how information is coded in sensory cells and the brain, how the brain directs appropriate behavioral responses, and the mechanisms underlying development and regeneration of sensory cells and specific synapse connections. They utilize molecular biology, genome information, and genetics to investigate these questions. Specifically, the lab aims to understand how specific changes in nucleotide sequences cause differences in taste sensitivity and how the gustatory system is organized. In olfaction, they wish to understand the mechanisms underlying the convergence of axons from neurons expressing the same receptor type to specific glomeruli in the olfactory bulb. Finally, the lab is interested in the pheromone sensing system, investigating how pheromonal effects are mediated, primarily by the vomeronasal organ (VNO).

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field, such as biology, chemistry, neuroscience, or a related discipline.

Responsibilities

Support research activities related to the chemical senses, with a particular focus on advancing our understanding of the sense of smell.
Conduct molecular biology experiments.
Perform cell culture.
Maintain mouse colonies.
Manage laboratory supplies and consumables, including monitoring inventory and placing orders, to help maintain efficient and productive laboratory operations.