Technical Associate I, Sur Lab in Cambridge: 774964

Q: What qualifications are required for this position?

A bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, Engineering , or a related field is required, along with at least two years of relevant lab experience . You must have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to analyze data and present it in a format suitable for publication. Animal handling experience , especially with rodents, is necessary. Preferred qualifications include experience with behavioral testing in mice and brain tissue preparation/histology . Tailor your CV using our academic CV writing guide .

Q: Is previous experience with two-photon imaging or electrophysiology required?

While not explicitly required, the lab heavily uses state-of-the-art in vivo imaging (two-photon) and electrophysiological techniques . Any familiarity with these methods is highly beneficial. The role involves assisting with data collection and analysis, so on-the-job training will be provided. Prepare for related interview questions with our lab technician interview tips .

Q: How do I apply for the Technical Associate I position?

Submit your application through the MIT careers portal or via AcademicJobs.com . Highlight your lab experience , animal handling skills , and data analysis capabilities . A cover letter expressing your interest in learning and memory research and a tailored CV are crucial. Check our winning academic CV guide for application best practices.

Q: What is the research focus of the Sur Lab?

The lab investigates how diverse brain regions participate in information processing and learning . Using advanced in vivo imaging , behavioral paradigms , and electrophysiology , they map cortical circuits that govern learning and memory. This position directly supports those efforts by maintaining the experimental pipeline and contributing to data analysis.

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Technical Associate I, Sur Lab

Technical Associate I

2026-10-11

Location

Cambridge, MA, USA

MIT

Type

Full-Time

Required Qualifications

BSc in Psychology/Neuroscience/Engineering

2+ years lab experience

Rodent handling

Data analysis & presentation

Histology & brain tissue prep

Behavioral testing (mice)

Strong communication skills

Organized and creative

Research Areas

In vivo imaging

Two-photon microscopy

Electrophysiology

Behavioral neuroscience

Learning and memory

Cortical circuits

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Posting Description

TECHNICAL ASSOCIATE I, SUR LAB, Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, to assist with general operational and research-related tasks regarding the role of diverse brain regions involved in information processing and learning, in a laboratory that utilizes state-of-the-art in vivo imaging techniques and advanced behavioral paradigms to elucidate how cortical circuits involved in learning and memory govern behavioral responses. Will conduct histological, molecular and behavioral experiments, assist with data collection and analysis of two-photon imaging and electrophysiological experiments, maintenance and scheduling of behavior equipment, technical support for lab personnel, administrative duties such as purchasing and maintaining compliance with MIT regulatory offices, and other duties as needed. As skills develop, there is significant potential for increasing involvement in scientific research.

Job Requirements

REQUIRED: Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, Engineering, or a related field; a minimum of two years of relevant lab experience; excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to analyze data and present it in a format suitable for publication; animal handling experience, preferably with rodents; high level of organization and creative thinking; ability to function effectively in a team-oriented environment. PREFERRED: Experience with behavioral testing, particularly in the mouse; brain tissue preparation and histology.

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Frequently Asked Questions

📋What are the primary duties of a Technical Associate I in the Sur Lab?

The role combines laboratory research support and administrative tasks. You will conduct histological, molecular, and behavioral experiments, assist with two-photon imaging and electrophysiology data collection and analysis, maintain and schedule behavior equipment, provide technical support to lab members, and handle purchasing and compliance with MIT regulatory offices. As skills develop, there is significant potential for increasing scientific involvement. For a broader overview of such roles, see what a research technician does.

🎓What qualifications are required for this position?

A bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, Engineering, or a related field is required, along with at least two years of relevant lab experience. You must have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to analyze data and present it in a format suitable for publication. Animal handling experience, especially with rodents, is necessary. Preferred qualifications include experience with behavioral testing in mice and brain tissue preparation/histology. Tailor your CV using our academic CV writing guide.

🔬Is previous experience with two-photon imaging or electrophysiology required?

While not explicitly required, the lab heavily uses state-of-the-art in vivo imaging (two-photon) and electrophysiological techniques. Any familiarity with these methods is highly beneficial. The role involves assisting with data collection and analysis, so on-the-job training will be provided. Prepare for related interview questions with our lab technician interview tips.

💡What opportunities for career advancement and independent research exist?

The Sur Lab encourages skill development, offering a clear path to greater involvement in scientific research. You will gain expertise in two-photon imaging, behavioral neuroscience, and data analysis, which can lead to co-authorship on publications, entry into graduate programs, or promotion to research scientist roles. The Picower Institute’s collaborative environment also provides many resources for professional growth. Browse higher ed jobs to see future career steps.

📝How do I apply for the Technical Associate I position?

Submit your application through the MIT careers portal or via AcademicJobs.com. Highlight your lab experience, animal handling skills, and data analysis capabilities. A cover letter expressing your interest in learning and memory research and a tailored CV are crucial. Check our winning academic CV guide for application best practices.

🧠What is the research focus of the Sur Lab?

The lab investigates how diverse brain regions participate in information processing and learning. Using advanced in vivo imaging, behavioral paradigms, and electrophysiology, they map cortical circuits that govern learning and memory. This position directly supports those efforts by maintaining the experimental pipeline and contributing to data analysis.

Technical Associate I, Sur Lab

MIT - Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA, USA