Research Assistant

Overview

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. Primary responsibilities include programming of new behavioral tasks and development of analysis pipelines. The position involves working with mice and tree shrews, data collection, accurate record-keeping, and managing electronic and paper data. The candidate will perform basic analyses and assist with figure preparation for publications and presentations.

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

• Pay Band: 3
• Overtime Status:
  Non-Exempt – Eligible for overtime
• Appointment Type:
  Restricted
• Salary Information:
  Commensurate with Experience
• Hours per week: 40
• Review Date: 5/22/26
• Additional Information:
  The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check

About Virginia Tech:
Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. Virginia Tech does not discriminate in employment 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. If you require an accommodation, please contact Brittany Shelton  during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.