Research Pro -Preclinical Research

About the Job

The Cohen Lab in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Minnesota seeks a Research Pro 1 to support lab research and operations. The position includes work with mice, including surgeries, colony maintenance, measurements of brain activity and behavior, and other biological assays. The ideal candidate will be detail‑oriented, with experience in standard lab techniques. The position will be open starting in the fall of 2026 (start date is flexible).

We aim to understand how the nervous system learns and makes decisions in dynamic environments. We are currently studying the structure and function of neurons that release monoamines (serotonin, nor epinephrine, dopamine, and histamine). These make up less than one‑thousandth of one percent of our neurons, yet they broadcast their signals to most of the brain. Many disorders of the nervous system, including Alzheimer's, depression, schizophrenia, drug addiction, and Parkinson's disease, appear to involve dysfunction of monoaminergic signaling.

Using anatomical techniques, cell‑type‑specific neurophysiology, theory, computation, and well‑controlled behavioral tasks in mice, we aim to understand the functions of monoaminergic neurons and their targets throughout the brain. We anticipate that these basic discoveries will lead to an understanding of the biology of the nervous system and better treatments for its disorders.

We strive to make the lab a place of belonging, personal growth, and development. The best scientific environments include people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. We are committed to the development and career growth of every lab member.

For prior work from the lab, see

• Collaborate with team members to perform and document experiments and procedures, including mouse surgery, transcardial perfusion, tissue collection, measurements of brain activity and behavior, and molecular biology assays.
• Collaborate with team members to maintain lab operations, including mouse colony maintenance, stocks of reagents and supplies, and instrument maintenance.

• BA/BS degree in neuroscience, biological sciences, biomedical engineering, or a related field or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least four years.
• Prior lab experience.
• Detail‑oriented.
• Experience in standard lab techniques.

Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system. It is an interdisciplinary science that collaborates with other fields such as chemistry, computer science, engineering, linguistics, mathematics, medicine and allied disciplines, philosophy, physics, and psychology. The Department of Neuroscience is committed to providing excellence in research, education, and public service. It is part of the University of Minnesota's Medical School.

Pay Range: $23.69 – $25.27 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Time Appointment: 100% appointment.

Position Type: Civil‑Service & Non‑Faculty Labor Represented Staff.

Benefits Include:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.