Research Technician – Menuz Lab

A full-time Research Technician position is available starting in July in the Department of Physiology & Neurobiology in the laboratory of Dr. Karen Menuz. The laboratory studies the molecular and cellular basis of olfaction in insects, using Drosophila fruit flies as a model organism. We are looking for a good lab citizen that seeks to acquire a solid training in basic lab research and is interested in a scientific research career.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Drosophila stock management (including genetic crosses, maintaining stocks, preparing fly food, and genotyping).
  • Lab ordering and managing of lab inventories.
  • General laboratory housekeeping duties (dishwashing, autoclaving trash, preparing bacteriological plates, etc.)
  • Contributing to experiments (such as behavioral assays), molecular biology experiments (such as cloning and/or RT-qPCR), and histology experiments (such as immunohistochemistry, FISH, and microscopy). All experiments will involve both data collection and/or analysis.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in the field of neuroscience, biological sciences, chemistry, molecular & cell biology, physiology, or another relevant discipline.
  • Ability to independently manage tasks and projects.
  • Strong verbal communication skills.
  • Detail oriented and good with time management.
  • Strong problem solving and analytical skills.
  • Ability to collaborate with people of different backgrounds and skill levels.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Previous lab experience particularly with immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy.
  • Previous experience with insects, especially Drosophila.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a temporary 3-month position (40 hours per week) with the possibility of renewal for up to two years. Renewal will depend on program needs, available funding, and performance. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

TO APPLY

Interested candidates are invited to send a cover letter addressing how they meet the qualifications, resume and the names and email contacts of three professional references to Dr. Karen Menuz (karen.menuz@uconn.edu). Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce.  The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner.  This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all.  We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same.  All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.

(HR23-55)