HS​/Associate Scientist

Funding available through 8/31/2026; continuance beyond that date is subject to the Department's operational needs as outlined in UBPPM #3200, Employee Classifications.

The Department of Neurosciences seeks an HS Associate Scientist 1 to work within a neuroscience research lab focused on the neurobiological mechanisms of drug and alcohol use/exposure. This is a full‑time, benefits‑eligible position.

• Collaborate with and assist investigators or staff scientists in planning, development, and implementation of laboratory, clinical, and/or field research studies.
• Design and independently execute standard research methods, protocols, and procedures.
• Analyze, evaluate, and interpret research data, and prepare summations and inferences for investigator review.
• Contribute as appropriate to the development of summary reports, presentations, and manuscripts associated with original research findings.
• Provide professional guidance, leadership, and instruction to technical support staff and/or students engaged in specific project activities; may provide full supervision to technical support staff, as appropriate.
• Ensure proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies and promote continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.
• Perform miscellaneous job‑related duties as assigned.

• Set up and perform alcohol exposure experiments in mice.
• Perform stereotaxic survival surgery in mice to implant neural electrodes and infuse viruses.
• Conduct behavioral testing in mice while recording neurophysiology and performing optogenetics.
• Collect and prepare brain tissue for ultra structural transmission electron microscopy, confocal microscopy, slide scanning microscopy, or single‑nuclei sequencing.
• Perform histological sectioning and immunofluorescence histochemistry on mouse brain tissue.
• Perform confocal stereo logical analysis on histological sections.
• Compile and analyze data for publication and research presentations using the above‑stated methodologies.
• Train undergraduate students, graduate students, postdocs, and staff on the above‑stated methodologies.
• Write and submit IACUC protocols.
• Manage and order research supplies and research supplies budget.

• For positions requiring driving, a valid NM driver’s license and valid UNM driver’s permit are required.
• The successful candidate must submit to post‑offer, pre‑employment physical examination and medical history check.

Bachelor’s degree; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified. Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that exceed the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year‑for‑year basis.

• B.S. in Neuroscience and/or Developmental Biology with at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
• Experience working with and performing necropsies on laboratory animals, particularly mice and/or rats.
• Experience with stereotaxic surgeries in rodents.
• Experience with cardiothoracic perfusions for tissue preservation.
• Biomedical laboratory research experience, including techniques such as tissue staining, RNA/DNA extraction and processing, PCR, electrophoresis, immunofluorescence histochemistry, protein analysis (Western blots), and behavioral experiments.
• Experience handling and working with very small parts (e.g., building models or bead work).
• Experience compiling and organizing very large datasets.
• Experience monitoring laboratory equipment, chemical/supplies inventory, and purchasing.
• Experience making research presentations (e.g., poster presentations) and drafting/publishing manuscripts and abstracts.
• Experience training staff on technical duties.

• Campus:
  Health Sciences Center (HSC) – Albuquerque, NM.
• Department:
  Neurosciences (993A).
• Employment Type:
  
  Staff – Term – Full‑Time.
• Term End Date: 08/31/2026.
• Status:
  Exempt.
• Monthly Pay: $3,844.53 – $5,399.33 (DOE DOE Q).
• Background Check
  
  Required:
  
  Yes.
• Eligible for Remote Work:
  No.

Th…