The Meltzer Laboratory specializes in using new molecular and imaging tools to understand how neural signals regulate touch and pain sensation development and disease. Our approach is interdisciplinary and spans mouse genetics, molecular biology, RNA sequencing, confocal microscopy, electrophysiology, and in vivo analysis of mouse models. 

Duties and Responsibilities 
  The Research Assistant will facilitate establishing a laboratory and support research projects in the laboratory and is expected to be collaborative. Primary responsibilities will include general laboratory organization and support, maintenance of central laboratory databases, genotyping, mouse husbandry, and laboratory mouse colony organization. Motivated individuals will have the opportunity to learn how to perform anatomy, confocal microscopy, behavior, data analysis and interpretation. Opportunity to perform independent research  Organize and maintain laboratory reagents and equipment  Maintain essential mouse lines  Assist with mouse maintenance and general laboratory operation  Learn about how to establish a laboratory Be a collaborative and interactive member of our research community 

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in biology, neuroscience, biochemistry, chemistry or related is required. Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community is strongly preferred.  Skill in organizing resources, establishing priorities, and attention to detail is strongly preferred.  Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, as well as basic computer skills are strongly preferred Vanderbilt experience is preferred.  Basic laboratory experience is required. 

 

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are.  We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education. 
Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

Please note, all candidates selected for an offer of employment are subject to pre-employment background checks, which may include but are not limited to, based on the role for which they have been selected: criminal history, education verification, social media review, motor vehicle records, credit history, and professional license verification.