"Research Lab Specialist Intermediate - Aton Lab"

The Aton Laboratory at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor is seeking a Research Laboratory Specialist Intermediate. The Aton lab studies how sleeping and awake brain states contribute to plasticity following novel sensory experiences. By combining behavioral, biochemical, electrophysiological, and optogenetic techniques, we study the effects of waking experiences and sleep on neural circuits in the rodent brain. To learn more about our exciting research please visit the Aton lab website at https://sites.lsa.umich.edu/aton-lab/.

• Independently design, execute, and analyze experiments to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying memory disruption in the context of sleep loss, aging, and neurodegenerative diseases in mice.
• Perform advanced in vivo techniques, including stereotaxic surgeries, chemogenetic manipulations, and electrophysiological recordings.
• Conduct behavioral assays to assess learning, memory, and cognitive performance, integrating findings with neurophysiological data.
• Carry out biochemical assays to evaluate molecular and cellular changes in targeted brain circuits.
• Maintain and analyze experimental datasets; develop and manage data pipelines to ensure reproducibility and integrity of results.
• Draft figures and sections of manuscripts for publications and contribute to grant proposals and presentations.
• Train and mentor students and junior lab members on experimental techniques, data analysis, and best practices.
• Ensure compliance with IACUC protocols, laboratory safety regulations, and institutional research standards.
• Contribute to strategic planning of research projects, including development of new methodologies and troubleshooting experimental challenges.

Bachelor's in Neuroscience, Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or related field of science, masters preferred, and 4 to 5 years of related research experience is required. This position is one year term limited with possibility of renewal.

As one of the world's great liberal arts colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.

The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.