Research Technician - Schank

Job Overview

Posting Number: S10320P
Working Title: RESEARCH TECHNICIAN - Schank
Department: Vet Med-Physiology & Pharmacol
Location: Athens Area
Employment Type: Employee – Full Time
Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (flexibility may be needed)

This role will serve as the lab manager/research technician for Dr. Jesse Schank’s lab in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology. The lab focuses on NIH‑funded basic research regarding stress, depression, alcohol consumption, and drug‑seeking behavior using preclinical rodent models. The candidate will manage multiple assays, conduct behavioral testing, perform surgeries, and oversee mouse breeding and maintenance.

• Organize and execute research projects, including data collection, assay development, and project management.
• Perform molecular and cell biology assays such as qPCR, RT‑PCR, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescent staining.
• Use light and confocal microscopy to analyze samples and prepare drugs and reagents for laboratory and rodent behavioral work.
• Conduct behavioral testing assays with rodents, perform surgeries, and dissect brain tissue when necessary. Section brain tissue on a cryostat.
• Maintain a clean and sterile lab environment; manage mouse breeding and maintain mouse lines.
• Perform laboratory maintenance duties such as autoclaving, dishwashing, and equipment maintenance. Maintain inventory of chemicals, media, and other supplies through UGAmart. Properly dispose of biohazardous waste.
• Communicate professionally with investigators and colleagues regarding workflow, time limitations, and project status. Train current laboratory members on processes and procedures.
• Support the submission of data and preliminary results for grants and other research‑associated administrative duties.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

• Technical knowledge acquired through an apprenticeship, a 2‑year degree, or a professional certificate. Minimum two‑year degree in a related field is preferred.
• Prior experience with rodent work highly preferred.
• Basic laboratory skills, including sterile technique and basic analytical skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Willingness to work with small animals.
• Basic critical‑thinking skills and capacity to multitask and prioritize work assignments with little supervision.

• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Sit, stand, stoop, bend, and walk intermittently on hard floor surfaces.
• Manual dexterity required to accurately work with small, delicate pieces of equipment or large heavy objects/containers/machinery, involving repetitive motions.
• Wear all protective gear as required (mask, gloves, gown, hairnet, safety goggles).
• Work for long periods of time with arms extended.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb).

Recruitment Contact Name:
Mandy Grizzle
Recruitment Contact Email: mandy.grizzle