Vivo electrophysiology Research Laboratory Specialist

Research Laboratory Specialist

The Smiley Lab at the University of Michigan is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Laboratory Specialist to join our new and growing laboratory. Our lab investigates the neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying parental behavior, with a particular focus on how the hormones associated with parenting modulate sensory processing of offspring vocal cues in an avian model system (zebra finch). This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a newly funded NIH project and to play a central role in establishing in vivo electrophysiology techniques from the ground up in a new lab environment.

The Research Laboratory Specialist will be an integral part of the research team, working closely with the PI and other researchers in the lab to ensure smooth execution of experiments and daily lab operations.

• Independently develop and maintain an in vivo electrophysiology system (including ordering and configuring equipment, troubleshooting hardware/software, and piloting experimental protocols).
• Independently design, conduct, and analyze electrophysiological research experiments in awake, behaving animals related to the lab's research goals.
• Has oversight for day-to-day operation of a specialized research laboratory focused on the neuroscience of songbird behavior
• Supervise exempt and non-exempt research and support personnel, including training junior lab members (graduate and undergraduate students) in technical methods and experimental procedures related to in vivo electrophysiology.
• Co-authors publications and may co-present results with Principal Investigator at meetings and/or conferences

• Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.
• 4-5 years of related experience with in vivo electrophysiology in animal models.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct and analyze experiments independently.
• Proficiency in programming and data analysis (e.g., MATLAB, Python).

• Master's degree or above in related field
• Previous experience with neuroendocrinology, hormone manipulation, or sensory neurobiology.
• Experience with setting up custom hardware/electrode building and troubleshooting complex experimental systems (e.g., microdrives, tetrodes, cannulation systems).
• Experience working with avian model systems.
• Experience mentoring or training students in technical methods.
• A collaborative mindset, with enthusiasm for contributing to a new laboratory setup and culture, along with excellent organizational, communication, and record-keeping skills.

The University of Michigan offers an extraordinary intellectual environment, with world-class neuroscience, psychology, and biomedical research communities, extensive core facilities, and a vibrant culture of collaboration across disciplines. Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan a city consistently ranked among the best places to live in the U.S.you'll enjoy a dynamic, culturally rich community with excellent restaurants, music and arts, easy access to nature, and a welcoming, progressive atmosphere.

Successful applicants will join a vibrant community of scientists in the Brain & Behavior area and the UM Psychology Department, as well as through the Michigan Neuroscience Institute .

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, the University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off, including vacation time, sick time, holiday and season days
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

In addition, LSA offers:

• Strong commitment to work/life balance
• Flexible work arrangements with respect to campus stakeholder needs
• Enhanced tuition support programs for LSA courses

Being part of something greater, of serving a larger mission of discovery and care that's the heart of what drives…