We are currently seeking a Research Technician to join the lab of Dr. Scott Sternson at The University of California, San Diego. The Sternson lab's research investigates how the brain controls appetite. They study multiple circuits throughout the brain as well as the interactions between neural systems that mediate hunger, thirst, and stress. Critical to this effort, the lab develops cutting-edge chemogenetic receptors to understand neural circuits for addiction.

The ideal candidate is an organized, proactive professional who will support a team of postdoctoral fellows with their research projects by performing sophisticated high throughput screening and electrophysiological characterization of ion channels to support of the lab's science. This position within the lab makes essential contributions for driving the science forward. We are targeting someone who is enthusiastic and passionate about research and would take pride in the work they do within a cutting-edge scientific lab. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build their career, and this position is well-suited for a long-term career using electrophysiology to design new ion channel receptors for addiction.

• Experience with epifluorescence and confocal microscopy.

• Prior experience with electrophysiology.

• Previous experience with cell culture.

• Programming skills in Matlab.

• Previous experience in Neuroscience.

• Ability to keep accurate records of work performed.

• Actively seeks opportunities to increase skills and expertise.

• Able to learn complex tasks with general instruction.

• Able to use experience to perform a variety of new techniques.

• Experience with ImageJ a plus.

• Proven ability to make innovative and independent significant contributions to research projects and protocols including development, design, and implementation into research.

• Work both independently and collaboratively with other team members to support the science of the lab

• Demonstrated ability to make important original contributions pertaining to the experimental investigation and analysis of multiple complex research projects including design and direction of multiple research projects, experimental design, coordination of collaborations, experimental execution, data analysis, and production of research finding for publications.

• Excellent verbal, written, and electronic communication skills that facilitate professional, effective, and courteous interaction with a diverse population.

• Solid computer skills using MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, email system, and a variety of web-based programs. Demonstrated ability to create and maintain databases, perform standard computer tasks, learn new programs/applications with minimal direction.

• Outstanding organizational skills and ability to prioritize work. Demonstrated ability to be well organized in execution of complex experiments with attention to details, keep meticulous, accurate and well-organized records of experiments, to analyze, interpret, report and record experimental results and produce results in graphic or visual formats.

• Excellent interpersonal skills including tact, diplomacy and flexibility with the ability to work in a team framework in conjunction with principles of community with staff, faculty and students.

• Knowledge of basic lab safety requirements and EH&S procedures. Knowledge and expertise to train lab personnel and students in safety guidelines, laboratory operations, and experimental techniques. Demonstrated experience working with chemical, radioisotope, and biological hazards. Ability to recognize and take appropriate measures to correct safety measures.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.