Research Technician – Scanziani Lab

Primary Work Address: 1550 4th Street, Suite 190, San Francisco, CA, We are currently looking for a proactive, detail-oriented Research Technician to work in the lab of Dr. Massimo Scanziani at the University of California, San Francisco. The Scanziani lab works to understand the mechanisms by which elementary circuits of neurons control the spatial and temporal structure of cortical activity.

Towards this goal, they use in vivo and in vitro electrophysiological, imaging, and anatomical techniques as well as behavioral approaches. Their model system is the rodent’s sensory cortex. Their work is revealing the logic and the mechanisms by which elementary circuits, the building blocks of cortical architecture, orchestrate cortical activity. More information about the Scanziani lab can be found by visiting (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).

the Role The ideal candidate is a professional, collegial individual who will enjoy working with mice, can work well independently and as part of a larger team, and is looking to grow professionally while supporting multiple projects in a medium-sized collaborative academic laboratory. The chosen candidate will be responsible for genotyping, handling, and breeding necessary to maintain the Scanziani lab’s colony of mice, histology and IF staining’s and provide them for various experiments in the lab.

This is an excellent opportunity for a candidate who would like to gain a couple more years of academic research experience before applying to graduate school.

What we provide:

A lab culture that values initiative, technical rigor, careful record keeping, collaboration, and responsible use of modern tools.

A highly interdisciplinary research environment ortunity to work in a diverse and encouraging work environment.

This position will provide valuable hands-on research experience, helping you develop a deeper understanding of how scientific research is conducted while preparing you for future graduate studies or building your career.

A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits including an employee education assistance program.

What you’ll do:

Perform regular checks of every cage in the mouse colony to monitor health and presence of new litters.

Address any necessary health issues with the colony and take appropriate action in a timely manner.

Establish new breeding pairs of mice to fulfill experimental needs of the laboratory.

Read and adhere to all relevant protocols, assist with drafting animal protocol amendments and renewals, and ensure mouse health and safety by adhering to all regulatory bodies’ standards for mouse maintenance.

Perform PCR reactions.

Prepare slides (vibratome and cryostat) and antibody staining’s

What you bring:

A bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related discipline is required.

Previous hands-on academic laboratory experience along with a solid understanding of molecular biology techniques (PCR, genotyping, etc.) is strongly preferred. Significant laboratory experience obtained during undergraduate studies is acceptable and will be considered.

Previous experience with handling mice would be a plus.

Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to work well with staff at all levels.

Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize and manage time across shifting demands.

Self-motivated and proactive, with a creative approach to problem solving.

Proficient with PC or Mac and Microsoft Office Suite.

Eager to learn new techniques and skills.

Comfortable handling and working with live mice on a regular basis.

Prior experience with immunofluorescent staining a plus.

Physical Requirements Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Work may involve…