Student Research Tech I

St. Joseph Hospital & Medical Center • Phoenix, AZ

8d • $15 - $22 • Onsite

About The Position

The Tjalkens Laboratory at Barrow Neurological Institute is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Student Research Technician to support multidisciplinary research investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the environmental etiology of Parkinson’s disease and related neurodegenerative disorders. This position will be responsible for supporting efforts in studies investigating how environmental toxicant exposure contributes to glial-mediated inflammation and neurodegeneration. The successful candidate will also gain experience observing high-content fluorescence microscopy and deep learning-based image analysis pipelines for the characterization of cellular phenotypes in experimental models of these diseases. The position provides an opportunity to work at the intersection of molecular neuroscience, neurotoxicology, and neuroimmunology with additional opportunities to develop expertise in the culture and maintenance of primary human and preclinical glial cells and neurons. The Tjalkens Laboratory uses complementary in vivo and in vitro models, high content microscopy, and advanced approaches in image analysis to investigate the mechanisms of neurodegeneration and neurotoxicity. This position offers the opportunity to develop a broad technical skillset spanning experimental neuroscience and quantitative biology while contributing directly to research aimed at understanding the cellular mechanisms underlying Parkinson’s disease.

Requirements

• High School Diploma Graduate or High School GED

Nice To Haves

• Current enrollment in Undergraduate Program - in progress of obtaining a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, biology, biomedical sciences, biochemistry, engineering, or related field.
• Demonstrated interest in neuroscience, neurodegeneration, neurotoxicology, and related biomedical research.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate experimental records.
• Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively within a collaborative research team.
• Willingness to learn new laboratory and computational techniques.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the generation, maintenance, and genetic characterization of experimental preclinical models for laboratory studies.
• Maintain accurate experimental records, adhere to established protocols, and document all information in appropriate laboratory databases.
• Work collaboratively with research scientists, postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and other laboratory personnel.
• Perform routine maintenance of laboratory equipment, reagents, and supplies and ensure compliance with institutional safety and research procedures.
• Develop proficiency with laboratory techniques for the culture and maintenance of primary human and preclinical neurons and glial cells as appropriate to ongoing projects.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED