Position will start in March 2025. Initial assignment will be for one year. Subsequent renewal of employment will be based upon performance review, progress towards research goals, and continuation of funding. The Elston Lab at the University of Texas at Austin is searching for a dedicated and organized Research Engineering/Scientist Associate to support our research on the neural foundations of cognitive control in non-human primates.
Purpose
The successful candidate will play a crucial role in managing day-to-day lab operations, contributing to the development of novel experimental equipment and brain-computer interfaces, and training lab personnel. They will also assist with experimental procedures, data collection, and preliminary data analysis. We are searching for a meticulous and proactive individual who is committed to contributing to a multidisciplinary research program in awake, behaving non-human primates. This position promises a vibrant and cooperative atmosphere within the broad neuroscience community at the University of Texa at Austin. The Elston Lab is committed to career development .
Responsibilities
- Assist with the design and implementation of experimental and enrichment protocols: collaborate with the research team to develop and refine tasks for cognitive neuroscience studies in non-human primates; assist with the maintenance of acute neurophysiology chambers; assist in enrichment schemes to promote laboratory animal welfare.
- Maintain and troubleshoot lab equipment: ensure the smooth functioning of neurophysiological recording systems, behavioral apparatuses, and computational infrastructure; proactively address technical issues as they arise.
- Support data collection and management: help with the collection of neural, behavioral, and physiological data, ensuring accuracy and consistency in data handling and storage.
- Develop custom experimental hardware and software: Contribute to the design and fabrication of novel equipment, including brain-computer interfaces and stimulation devices, as well as code development for task automation and data processing.
- Train lab staff on experimental procedures and equipment: guide graduate students, postdocs, and other lab members in using specialized equipment, following protocols, and ensuring the integrity of data collection.
- Coordinate with collaborators and vendors: liaise with external collaborators and suppliers to facilitate smooth operation and delivery of lab equipment and services.
Required Qualifications
- Doctoral degree in a quantitative field and two years of related experience with relevant education and experience substituted as appropriate.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with non-human primates and/or neurophysiology is preferable.
- Ability to use and design specialized research equipment as required by the project.
Salary
$67,000
Working Conditions
- May work around chemical fumes.
- May work around standard office conditions.
- May work around biohazards.
- May work around chemicals.
- Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.
Required Materials
- Resume/CV
- 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
- Letter of interest
