New

Research Assistant (Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics)

University of California - Los Angeles Health
$32.79-52.75 Hourly
United States, California, Los Angeles
Oct 07, 2026
Description The Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior is seeking to hire a full-time Research Assistant to join the Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics Lab. The laboratory studies the biological mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative disorders, including Huntington's disease and Alzheimer's disease, using innovative approaches in mouse genetics, molecular biology, systems neuroscience, and advanced imaging technologies. You will contribute to groundbreaking neuroscience by applying advanced laboratory techniques to investigate disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies. Key responsibilities include: Perform advanced neuroscience, molecular biology, and cellular biology research techniques Culture mammalian cell lines, immunostaining, confocal microscopy, and light sheet imaging of mouse brain tissue and human organoids Manage mouse colonies, including breeding, genotyping, health monitoring, and experimental recordkeeping Collect and process tissue and biological samples for DNA, RNA, and protein analyses Support viral vector studies, including AAV and lentiviral applications in cell and animal models Assist with experimental design, data analysis, manuscript preparation, and research reports Salary range: $32.79/hr - $52.75/hr Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, Molecular Genetics, or related field Minimum 3 years of research experience in neuroscience, molecular genetics, molecular biology or related field Demonstrated proficiency with molecular, cellular, pathological, and animal research techniques Experience working with mouse models, including colony management, genotyping, histopathology, imaging, and data analysis Experience culturing cell lines and/or primary cells and performing molecular analyses Experience with molecular cloning, DNA, RNA, and protein extraction techniques Experience utilizing viral vectors in cell-based or animal studies Ability to contribute to experimental design, data collection, and data analysis activities Strong interpersonal, organizational, written, and verbal communication skills Demonstrated ability to contribute to specific manuscripts, reports, or other research-related materials Preferred: Experience contributing to scientific publications or scholarly research products in neuroscience, molecular genetics, molecular biology, or related field