Research Specialist
The laboratory of Dr. Michael Brainard is seeking a Research Specialist to join our group at the University of California San Francisco. The Brainard lab uses song learning in songbirds to investigate how experience and genetics interact to result in individual differences in behavior. We use a variety of genetic, neurophysiological, and computational approaches to study these issues, including measuring how gene expression and neural circuitry differs across individuals in relation to behaviors. More information about ongoing research can be found on our website: https://physiology.ucsf.edu/content/brainard-michael-phd
About the role:
Michael Brainard is interested in how experience acts on the nervous system to shape behavior. Brainard and his team want to understand how the nervous system changes over the course of development to give rise to critical periods for learning, and how individuals’ innate variations interact with experience to give rise to differences in learned behaviors. The team focuses on vocal learning in songbirds as a model system to investigate these questions, employing a variety of behavioral, neurophysiological, and genetic approaches.
In this role, you will work collaboratively with Dr. Brainard and other lab members to develop, coordinate, and undertake research projects using molecular biology, genomic, and computational approaches. We are looking for someone who is highly motivated and independent and wishes to contribute to furthering our understanding of how heritable factors shape learning outcomes.
Prior research experience and interests will be taken into consideration when defining roles in ongoing research and there is potential to help define some future projects.
What we provide:
1:1 mentorship while also working collaboratively as part of a team.
Opportunities for professional and educational development and growth.
Opportunity to attend and present original work at scientific meetings.
Opportunity to contribute to exciting research projects with potential for authorship on research papers
Potential for formal and informal leadership training.
A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
What you’ll do:
Engage in cutting-edge research in behavioral, systems, and molecular neuroscience.
Carry out and/or coordinate research projects. Set up and evaluate new laboratory techniques.
Analyze and interpret data using appropriate statistical and computational tools.
Work both independently and collaboratively with other team members to support the science of the lab. Potential for contributions to scientific publications.
May train others in technical areas and complex processes.
Plan for and provide working supervision to the work of Research Technicians, Graduate Students, or other laboratory personnel.
Establish a positive atmosphere towards growth of lab trainees.
What you bring:
A Master of Science degree, preferably PhD degree in life or physical sciences; or an equivalent combination of education and related work experience.
In-depth knowledge of multiple areas and of the underlying principles and concepts. Extensive experience with molecular biological, genomic and bioinformatic/computational approaches is a strong plus.
Willingness to consult with colleagues within the institution to obtain specialized information.
One year of experience as a Research Specialist I or equivalent (Five years of related work experience).
Technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaborative ability as well as independent thought.
Ability to develop innovative processes to achieve goals such as bringing new techniques or improving efficiency and throughput of current protocols.
Directs others to develop essential tasks. Reviews work activities to determine where new information could improve processes or move project forward.
Ability to write and prepare reports or manuscripts for presentation to large audiences.
Ability to make sound decisions based on knowledge and experience.
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 possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.
Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Please Note:
This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Compensation and Benefits
Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.
Compensation Range
$73,680.00 (minimum) - $92,100.00 (midpoint) - $119,760.00 (maximum) Pay Type: Annual
HHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.