Technical Associate I, Sur Lab

About the role

The Sur Lab at the Picower Institute for Learning & Memory at MIT seeks a Technical Associate I to support general operational and research tasks on the role of diverse brain regions in information processing. The lab uses state-of-the-art in vivo imaging and advanced behavioral paradigms to study how cortical circuits involved in learning and memory shape behavior. The position is full-time and exempt, with a pay range of $50,000 to $63,000.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct histology and behavioral experiments
• Maintain and schedule behavior equipment
• Provide technical support to lab personnel
• Handle administrative duties such as purchasing and maintaining compliance with MIT regulatory offices
• As skills grow, take on more scientific research
• Possible duties: set up, maintain and run experiments in cultured cell lines (iPSCs and iPSC-derived neuronal or astrocytic lines), tissue culture (brain organoids, stem cells, neuronal progenitors, neurons), stem cell facility maintenance, molecular and biochemical assays (PCR, western blotting, genotyping), and imaging with confocal or multi-photon microscopy

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in psychology, neuroscience or a related field
• At least two years of related lab experience
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to analyze data and present it in a publication-ready format
• Hands-on experience in tissue culture (stem cell or neuronal)
• Animal handling experience, preferably with rodents