Research Technician

Santa Clara University•Santa Clara, CA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Research Technician will provide essential technical and operational support for a neuroscience research laboratory investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate oligodendrocyte development, myelination, and neuron–glia interactions in health and disease.

Requirements

Background in developmental and neurobiology.
Working knowledge of basic wet lab techniques.
Experience with safe handling of hazardous chemicals.
Experience with animal handling.
Experience with PCR.
Experience with gel electrophoresis.
Experience with immunohistochemistry.
Experience with microscopy.
Experience with image analysis.
Experience with primary cell culture.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, collaborative, and enthusiastic about contributing to a dynamic, team-based research environment.
Understand and follow laboratory safety regulations.
Work independently.
Work cooperatively as part of a research team, including regular progress reports to the supervisor and other members of the laboratory.
Keep detailed records of work in laboratory notebook.
Bachelor's degree required, preferably in neuroscience, biology, or biochemistry.
0-2 years of experience in a research lab (paid or unpaid) required.
Ability to effectively establish and maintain cooperative working relationships within an inclusive multicultural environment and to promote and contribute to a respectful workplace.

Responsibilities

Perform a wide range of experimental procedures, including immunohistochemistry, microscopy, cell culture experiments, and animal colony maintenance.
Collect and analyze data, and help ensure the successful execution of funded research projects.
Prepare data figures and support training of students.
Keep a working inventory of routinely used chemicals and consumables, and place orders with vendors to replenish these as needed.
Conduct and document routine digital safety audits using the designated institutional portal.
Address and resolve small-scale safety violations to maintain compliance within the research space.
Draft comprehensive standard operating procedures to facilitate the instruction of students, ensuring all laboratory tasks are performed with a high degree of caution and consistency.
Plays a critical role in maintaining research continuity, training student researchers, ensuring compliance with animal care regulations, and generating high-quality, reproducible data that advances the laboratory's scientific mission.
Ensures that undergraduate student researchers maintain a safe laboratory environment and adhere to standard laboratory procedures.
Prepares and submits reports as requested and required.
Develops and implements guidelines to support the functions of the unit.