Research Specialist

Job Summary

A highly-motivated research assistant with interest in Neuroscience and Pharmacology is sought to work on grant-supported projects in the lab of Dr. David Mott in the Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience within the University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Candidates will use cutting‑edge techniques to study and understand how synaptic transmission between excitatory and inhibitory nerve cells in the brain is modified as a result of experience.

Previous research experience is preferred but not required. All dedicated candidates interested in gaining research experience prior to applying to graduate or medical school or pursuing careers in biomedical research at academic, pharmaceutical, or biotech institutions are welcome to apply. Preference will be given to enthusiastic and passionate candidates with strong problem‑solving skills who have demonstrated an ability to work as part of a team.

The candidate will conduct business lawfully and ethically by consistently adhering to compliance policies, procedures, and regulations.

• Bachelor’s degree in an area of research specialty.

• Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Biochemistry/Chemical Biology, Psychology, Pharmacology, or a related field.

• Previous experience handling rodents and rodent behavioral tests is preferred but not required.
• Previous research experience is preferred but not required.
• Previous experience recording neural activity in rodents is preferred but not required.
• Conduct business lawfully and ethically by consistently adhering to compliance policies, procedures, and regulations.

• Conduct experiments with rodents, including behavioral assays and surgical interventions, and analyze experimental data and record keeping. (45%)
• Perform rodent colony maintenance (husbandry, etc.). (20%)
• Perform general lab duties (ordering supplies, maintaining instruments, preparing buffers, washing glassware, etc.). (10%)
• Present research findings to the group and participate in group journal clubs. (10%)
• Training and assisting graduate/undergraduate students. (10%)
• Perform other duties as assigned. (5%) (Not essential)

The University of South Carolina (UofSC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. Research Grant or Time‑limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.

The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.