Technical Associate I, Harnett Lab

MIT • Cambridge, MA

25d

About The Position

TECHNICAL ASSOCIATE I, HARNETT LAB , McGovern Institute for Brain Research - The Harnett lab , to support research in systems and cellular neuroscience. The lab investigates how the biophysical properties of neurons give rise to cortical computations that underlie mammalian behavior. This position will contribute to one or more active research projects and may provide opportunities to develop an independent component aligned with ongoing studies. Responsibilities may include conducting rodent behavioral experiments; performing in vivo and in vitro neural recordings such as whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology, Neuropixels recordings, and two-photon microscopy; assisting with rodent brain surgeries; and carrying out histology and immunohistochemistry procedures. The role may also involve confocal microscopy, data processing and curation, and maintaining accurate experimental records. Depending on the candidate’s experience, additional responsibilities may include data analysis and computational modeling, particularly for those with programming proficiency. The Harnett Lab is committed to fostering the scientific and professional development of its members within a collaborative and inclusive research environment. This position is well suited for individuals seeking to strengthen their research skills prior to pursuing graduate or medical training.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific or engineering discipline
• A minimum of one year of research experience (undergraduate or post-baccalaureate)
• Strong quantitative reasoning skills
• Excellent organizational, communication, and time-management skills
• Ability to work both collaboratively and independently

Nice To Haves

• Experience in systems or cellular neuroscience techniques (including rodent behavior, surgery, electrophysiology, immunohistochemistry, imaging, and/or in vivo recording methods)
• Experience with programming and data analysis in Python and/or MATLAB

Responsibilities

• Conducting rodent behavioral experiments
• Performing in vivo and in vitro neural recordings such as whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology, Neuropixels recordings, and two-photon microscopy
• Assisting with rodent brain surgeries
• Carrying out histology and immunohistochemistry procedures
• Confocal microscopy
• Data processing and curation
• Maintaining accurate experimental records
• Data analysis and computational modeling (depending on experience)

What This Job Offers

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