Research Assistant

Position: Research Assistant I
Posting Number S06982P Position Title Research Assistant I Functional Title Department Neuroscience Salary Range $37,000, DOQ Pay Basis Monthly Position Status Regular full-time Location Richardson Position End Date (if temporary) Posting Open Date 04/16/2026 Posting Close Date Open Until Filled No Desired Start Date 05/01/2026

Job Summary

The Center for Advanced Pain Studies at The University of Texas at Dallas is seeking a Research Assistant I to join the Price Laboratory. This position will contribute to NIH‑funded research projects focused on understanding the mechanisms and treatment of chronic pain using both preclinical models and human tissues recovered from organ donors.

The selected candidate will provide technical assistance across multiple research projects and will conduct research activities in accordance with approved research protocols. Applicants should have experience with cell culture, patch‑clamping, and tissue dissociation.

This role offers the opportunity to work in a collaborative research environment supporting advanced studies in pain biology.

The Price Laboratory is dedicated to uncovering the fundamental principles of neuronal plasticity that drive chronic pain. The lab aims to translate these discoveries into novel therapeutic approaches with the potential to prevent the development of chronic pain or permanently reverse persistent pain states. Research efforts concentrate on two primary areas: plasticity in peripheral nociceptive neurons following injury and plasticity in central nervous system circuits resulting from persistent stimulation of peripheral nociceptors.

To address these questions, the lab employs a broad range of molecular, biochemical, genetic, behavioral, imaging, and electrophysiological techniques, with an overarching emphasis on pharmacology and drug discovery.

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in one of the basic sciences or an equivalent combination of education and experience in customer service or in daily interactions in a public services environment.

Preferred

Education and Experience

Preferred

Education and Experience

An undergraduate degree in Biology, Neuroscience, or a related field is preferred.

Other Qualifications

To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

* Undergraduate degree in biology, neuroscience, etc. or related degree

* Hands on experience in a biology laboratory.

* Strong technical knowledge of molecular biology methods

* Technical knowledge in molecular biology techniques (e.g. PCR, nucleic acid purification) and cell biology techniques (e.g. cell culture, confocal microscopy) is also preferred.

* Motivation to learn and master new methods and techniques

* Participate in human tissue recoveries from organ donors

* Excellent communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with all levels of staff

* Ability to record and report results with clarity

* Persistence, attention to details, and willingness to troubleshoot technical challenges

* Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

* This position provides an opportunity to lead and run experiments under the supervision of the PI and postdocs

* Provide technical and research support for key laboratory personnel

Physical Demands and Working Conditions Physical Activities Working Conditions Additional Information

Travel:

This position may be subject to occasional travel for conferences, training, and development, or for other project needs.

Remote:
Work is performed on-site and in person

What We Can Offer

UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer with an employee-friendly and supportive work environment. Our comprehensive compensation and benefits package that is effective as of your hire date includes:

* Competitive Salary

* Tuition Benefits

* BCBS PPO Medical Insurance Options…