The School of Humanities and Sciences (H&S) is the foundation of a liberal arts education at Stanford. The school encompasses 24 departments and 25 interdisciplinary programs. H&S is home to fundamental and applied research, where free, open, and critical inquiry is pursued across disciplines. As the university’s largest school, H&S serves as the foundation of a Stanford undergraduate education no matter which discipline students pursue as a major. Graduate students work alongside world-renowned faculty to pursue and shape foundational research that leads to breakthroughs and discoveries that shed new light on the past, influence the present, and shape the future. Together, faculty and students in H&S engage in inspirational teaching, learning, and research every day.
POSITION SUMMARY: The Laboratory of Organismal Biology at Stanford University has a position for a motivated research assistant at the Life Science Research Professional I level with interests in amphibian neuroscience and behavior. Our lab focuses on behavior and physiology in amphibians and this position will focus on (1) understanding the neural mechanism of caregiver recognition in social tadpoles and (2) using machine learning tools such as DeepLabCut to quantify video recordings of behavioral experiments, making protocols accessible to the broader scientific community, and community engagement through partnerships with science classrooms in K-12 education. This is a great opportunity for people interested in amphibians, neuroscience, and science communication.
The main responsibilities of the successful candidate are to detect specific proteins in brain tissues with immunohistochemistry, clear whole brains using the iDISCO technique, probe neural circuits using approaches such as dye electroporation, and optimize DeepLabCut for quantifying tadpole behavior. Other responsibilities include performing routine laboratory techniques maintain records of lab work, assisting in data analysis, and conducting behavior experiments.
If you believe that this opportunity is a match for your knowledge, skills and abilities, we encourage you to apply. Thank you for considering employment opportunities with the School of Humanities and Sciences.
CORE DUTIES:
● Plan approach to experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory.
● Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
● Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.
● Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.
● Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.
● Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
● Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.
* Other duties may also be assigned.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
● Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
● General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
● Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
● Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
● General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
● Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
● Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
● May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
● May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
● Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
● Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
● May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.
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