Research Assistant | Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Behavior

Organization Overview

The Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Behavior takes advantage of the relatively simple nervous system of the fruit fly Drosophila to examine how flexibility is engineered into the nervous system to give rise to adaptive behaviors, at the level of both individuals and species. We examine how learning rapidly shapes neural pathways to allow each member of a species to respond appropriately to their unique experience of the world. We also consider how neural circuits are adapted over longer evolutionary time scales to give rise to species-specific behaviors. Our lab employs a multidisciplinary approach, from biochemistry to behavior, with the goal of revealing the neural basis for flexible behavior at high resolution. 

Overview

The Ruta lab is seeking a Research Assistant with an interest in insect behavior and understanding how neural circuits evolve across Drosophila species.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities include:

• Perform fly genetics to create transgenic lines and other molecular genetic tasks
• Conduct anatomic, functional, and behavioral characterization of generated lines
• Establish and maintain fly stocks
• Conduct and analyze behavior experiments
• Participate in weekly laboratory meetings and planning sessions.
• Perform general lab maintenance and support duties as needed.
• Demonstrate attention to detail, organization, multi-tasking, and fast learning

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, genetics, neuroscience, or closely related field
• True excitement for animal behavior and willingness to troubleshoot experiments
• Excellent organizational, communication, and time management skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in molecular biology desirable (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, IHC assays)
• Experience working with Drosophila and a foundation in fly genetics desirable
• Ability to do basic programming in MATLAB or Python helpful but not required