Research Technician II, Neurology

Why join UT Southwestern?

UT Southwestern Medical Center is one of the 10 best large employers in the United States and among the top 5 of healthcare employers, according to the America’s Best Employers 2022 list compiled by Forbes.  UTSW is also ranked as the top healthcare employer for diversity in the US according to the America’s Best Employers for Diversity 2022 list compiled by Forbes and Statista; and we are the only healthcare institution listed among the top 20 employers nationally.

The Department of Neurology at UT Southwestern Medical Center is a nationally recognized leader in the comprehensive management of neurological conditions.  Our vibrant department comprises more than 75 full-time faculty in 12 subspecialty sections, supporting a spectrum of complex and innovative approaches to neurological care, a broad range of novel research programs, and a panoply of educational opportunities for trainees.  The department offers access to the latest innovative treatments in one of the most rapidly advancing fields of medicine and features an Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center and a Level-4 NEAC Epilepsy Center.  Through collaborations with the O’Donnell Brain Institute, the department is building state-of-the art facilities for drug and device testing and bringing current and new faculty together for collaborative research on brain disease therapy. 

Job Summary

The laboratory of Dr. Makoto Ishii, in the Department of Neurology, is interested in understanding the bidirectional relationship between brain function and systemic metabolism with an emphasis on metabolic deficits in Alzheimer’s disease and how it differs from normal aging. Our laboratory focuses on generating hypotheses derived from open questions in clinical neurology and neuroendocrinology, testing these hypotheses using molecular genetics and neuroscience techniques in mouse models, and whenever possible verifying these findings in human research studies.

We are seeking a Research Technician II with an undergraduate degree in the biological sciences and either proficiency or a strong interest in learning to work with mouse models of disease. We are specifically seeking someone who is motivated to learn the various techniques used in our laboratory including: DNA/RNA work including PCR and quantitative PCR, mouse colony management including genotyping, immunohistochemistry using mouse brain and other tissue types, immunoassays including ELISA, various behavioral and physiological testing in mouse models. While no prior experience in any technique is necessary, motivation and the ability to work in a team environment are paramount. Ideally, candidates will be able to commit for at least 2 years in the laboratory. Please ensure your application includes a Cover Letter and current CV.

Department Expectations

·       Knowledge of molecular biology and animal physiology.

·       Experience in handling rodents (minimum of willingness to learn and work with mice).

·       Strong organizational skills and record keeping, including but not limited to, transcribing, and analyzing data using statistical techniques and presenting data using appropriate figures.

·       Experience in molecular biology and laboratory techniques (i.e., PCR, DNA extraction, etc.)

·       Ability to work as part of a team and multi-task.

Experience and Education

·       Bachelor's degree with major coursework in field of assignment and no experience required. or

·       Two (2) years of college with emphasis in coursework in the field of assignment and two (2) years of laboratory experience at the level of Laboratory Technical Assistant or equivalent. or

·       High school graduation or GED and four (4) years of laboratory experience including two years at level of Laboratory Technical Assistant or equivalent.

Preferred Job Duties

·       Responsible for mouse models that include maintenance of mouse colonies, breeding and genotyping and includes participation in tissue and biospecimen collection, extraction of DNA/RNA/protein, molecular work such as cloning, plasmid isolation, PCR and RT-PCR, gel electrophoresis (Southern, Northern or Western blot analysis as needed).

·       Performs and analyzes physiological, behavioral, and anatomical experiments in mouse models.

·       Performs immunohistochemical studies on animal tissues.

·       Performs ELISA/immunoassays on human and animal biospecimen samples as necessary.

·       Uses PC/Mac computers to perform database collection, data analysis, graphing and maintains accurate records, reports, and statistics.

·       Maintains instruments using appropriate standards and methods to insure meaningful results. Maintain laboratory reagents and supplies. Maintain inventory and order supplies as needed.

Job Duties

·       Performs routine scientific and medical research work in biomedical engineering, optics, and/or physics.

·       Assembles and/or operates various laboratory equipment and apparatus.

·       Records research data in accordance with prescribed procedures, discussing results with supervisor.

·       Assists in collection of data for project reports.

·       Reads literature and confers with supervisor concerning implementation of new procedures.

·       May plan for, and provide working supervision to, work of laboratory personnel of lower grade engaged in limited phase of research project.

·       Performs other duties as assigned.

To learn more about the benefits UT Southwestern offers, visit https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/employees/hr-resources/

UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community.  As an equal opportunity employer, UT Southwestern prohibits unlawful discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or veteran status.