Research Professional 1 - Department of Neuroscience

About the Job

About the Department:

Learning occurs when connections between neurons in the brain change in response to activity. The Kerlin lab (kerlinlab.org) uses new in vivo imaging techniques to track the activity and strength of individual connections (synapses) in the brains of mice learning new movements in a well-controlled task. This information allows us to model the computations within single neurons and across networks of neurons that are relevant to the acquisition of new motor skills.

Job Duties:

This position will assist the principal investigator, postdoctoral associates, and students conduct experiments on motor learning in mice. This includes the handling of mice, intracranial surgery, behavioral training, and brain imaging. The researcher will also assist with lab maintenance and administration.

70%: Laboratory Research

• Conduct or assist with experiments, as directed by other research staff.
• Perform intracranial surgery in mice, including the injection of viral vectors into the brain.
• Train mice to perform a behavioral task using custom training software.
• Conduct or assist with experiments to optically manipulate brain activity.
• Assist staff with two-photon brain imaging experiments.
• Build experimental setups under the supervision of other research staff.
• Keep detailed records of all experiments and procedures.
• Perform perfusions and histology when needed.

30%: Laboratory Management

• Order supplies and animals for the laboratory.
• Collaborate with vendors to obtain custom-manufactured parts and equipment.
• Provide administrative assistance to the principal investigator (processing reimbursements, travel arrangements, etc.).
• Assist with basic lab duties (buffer preparation, dye preparation, autoclaving, etc.).
• Help maintain regulatory documentation (e.g., controlled substances, safety, animal care) and ensure that lab equipment is in compliance with relevant regulations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, engineering, biology, chemistry or other natural or life science or a combination of related education and work experience to equal (4) years.
• Prior experience working with animals in a research setting.

Preferred:

• Pre-doctoral students, pre-medical students, and individuals from historically underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.

About the Department

The Department of Neuroscience is committed to providing excellence in research, education, and public service. The Department of Neuroscience is part of the University of Minnesotas Medical School. The Medical School and related healthcare professional schools are grouped under the Academic Health Center.

The Mission of the Department of Neuroscience

• Conduct outstanding neuroscience research.
• Be an educational resource to the Medical School and the University by providing neuroscience education to undergraduate, medical, dental, graduate, and post-graduate students.
• Provide leadership and be a focal point for the strengthening of neuroscience across the University by enhancing research, educational, and funding opportunities.
• Intentionally improve inclusivity by valuing diverse perspectives and actively supporting historically marginalized researchers, students, and neuroscience community members.
• Provide a bridge for the transfer of advances in basic neuroscience into clinical practice with the goal of improving the health of the people of Minnesota.
• Enhance the understanding and appreciation of neuroscience by the people of Minnesota.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $20.86 to $24.50; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the

time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures

that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while

maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and

equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates

will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nations most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.