Research Assistant

Job Description

The Halassa Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant. Led by Dr. Michael Halassa, the lab uses controlled behavioral tasks alongside physiological, genetic, and optical techniques to investigate the brain circuits that support cognitive function. They focus on thalamocortical networks and how they contribute to attention, executive control, and decision-making.

The goal of our lab is to develop a computational framework for understanding the cognitive thalamus. The ideal candidate will have strong interpersonal skills and be comfortable joining a dynamic research lab. Prior laboratory experience is helpful but not required. The primary responsibility involves programming of new behavioral task and the development of analysis pipelines. Programming skills, accurate record-keeping, and experience with data collection are required, as well as the ability to manage electronic and paper data.

In addition, the position involves working with mice and tree shrews, so a fundamental interest in animal models and behavior is essential. Techniques in the lab include in vivo electrophysiology, neuroanatomy, optogenetics, and computational approaches. The candidate will perform basic analyses, and assist with figure preparation for publications and presentations. Familiarity with the lab’s core techniques is a plus. The candidate should be collaborative, detail-oriented, and adaptable to different research tasks.

Opportunities exist to contribute to research publications and attend national scientific conferences when appropriate.

• Demonstrated ability to organize and analyze experimental data
• Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational and team skills
• Capable of working independently and as part of a team
• Demonstrated computer skills and programming experience
• Demonstrated organizational skills and attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability and desire to succeed in a fast-paced research environment with multiple concurrent duties
• Excellent written and oral communication skills

• Coursework or training in neuroscience biology, psychology, or a related field
• Experience working in a professional research setting
• Experience in programming with MATLAB, Arduino, Python, Lab View
• Experience contributing to publications or scientific presentations

3

Non-Exempt:
Eligible for overtime

Restricted

Commensurate with Experience

40

2/20/2026

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Brittany Shelton at sheltb.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.