Temporary Research Assistant

Job Summary

We are seeking a Temporary Research Assistant to support ongoing research in the Hoeffer Lab. The ideal candidate will have prior experience working with mice, particularly with husbandry and colony maintenance, and be proficient in general wet lab techniques, especially PCR.

Who We Are

The Hoeffer Lab utilizes a variety of mouse models to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying neurological disorders and diseases. We employ a diverse range of experimental techniques, from behavioral assays and molecular biology approaches to ex vivo electrophysiological recordings, to characterize disease-related phenotypes across multiple levels of analysis. Once dysregulated pathways are identified, we use pharmacological and genetic interventions to determine their causal roles and assess their potential for restoring normal function. A major component of our work involves cell type-specific gene manipulation using Cre Recombinase-driven knockdown strategies, allowing us to dissect the contributions of individual genes and signaling pathways to neural circuit function and behavior. Through these approaches, we aim to better understand the biological basis of neurological disease and identify potential therapeutic targets.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Mouse colony maintenance, including husbandry and breeding.
• Animal procedures such as perfusion and behavioral testing.
• Conducting laboratory techniques including brain tissue sectioning, immunostaining, fluorescent imaging, and genotyping.

What You Should Know

This position ends August 2026.

What We Can Offer

This position will pay $20/hour.

What We Require

Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, biology, or a related field.

What You Will Need

Prior hands-on experience working with mice. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

What We Would Like You to Have

Proficiency with PCR and mouse handling while being self-motivated and an acute attention to detail.