Research Lab Technician I

The McElvain Laboratory (https://www.mcelvainlab.org/) and the Moore Laboratory (https://www.moorelaboratory.org/) are seeking a full-time Research Lab Technician I to begin around June 1, 2023.  The research technician will support research on the neural circuits that regulate movement and will have the opportunity to conduct independent work, if so desired. This position is based in the Neurobiology Section of the Department of Biological Sciences, on the beautiful University Park Campus of USC, close to downtown Los Angeles.

Position responsibilities:

The research technician will be involved in all aspects of lab operation and will supervise other lab members as needed. Job duties include ordering/purchasing, laboratory organization, research animal colony maintenance, stereotaxic  surgery, animal behavior studies, histology, and data analysis.  The successful applicant should be able to keep detailed notes, follow systematic protocols, and communicate effectively with other members of the team. The employee will have the opportunity to learn new scientific techniques and to participate in other career development activities and will be eligible for a generous benefits package.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree biology, neuroscience, chemistry, or other relevant discipline.
• Previous research experience in biology, neuroscience, chemistry, or other relevant discipline.

Strong applicants will have excellent organizational skills and attention to detail; experience working independently in a biology research laboratory; strong communication skills and the ability to work well with others. Experience in the following is desired, but not required: microscopy, histology, electrophysiology, mouse behavior, programming, and data analysis.

Recent college graduates are encouraged to apply for the position to gain broad experience in state-of-the-art neuroscience research. Above all, we value candidates who are highly motivated and willing to learn and thrive in a dynamic and multidisciplinary research environment.

Percentage of Time: 100% full-time

Position will be funded on contracts, grants or gifts.

Hourly range: The hourly rate range for this position is $20.18 - $22.89. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Required Documents and Additional Information:

• Resume and cover letter required (may be uploaded as one file).
• Job openings are posted for a minimum of (5) five business days. This job may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended, so please apply on the same business day if interested.
• USC has excellent benefits, including health benefits for staff and their family with access to the renowned university medical network; eligibility for retirement plans with employer contributions after six months of employment; tuition benefits for staff and their family; free Professional Development classes; central Los Angeles location with easy access to commuter trains, buses and free tram pick up services; discounts to sporting and other campus events.

Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

The University of Southern California is an Equal Opportunity Employer that Values Diversity.

Minimum Education: High school or equivalent, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months, Combined education/experience as substitute for minimum experience Minimum Field of Expertise: Ability to follow detailed instructions, oral and written