This is a limited position with the possibility of extension/career conversion.

Special Selection Applicants: Apply by 11/21/2019. Eligible Special Selection clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

UCSD Department of Psychiatry is one of the most innovative and productive academic departments in the country, offering challenging career opportunities in the diverse areas of advanced educational programs, cutting edge research, and state-of-the-art clinical services. The department is committed to offering a dynamic learning environment and growing opportunities to its talented and dedicated employees.

Under supervision, the Behavioral Research Associate will be trained to perform surgical, behavioral, physiological and histological analyses on animals, and behavioral/physiological analyses in humans. The goal of the lab is better understand physiological/neural dysfunction in neuropsychiatric disorders, and apply neural engineering principles to target and repair these neural dysfunctions.

Duties will include but are not limited to: assist with all aspects of planning and conducting behavioral experiments in rats and mice; surgical procedures involved in electrode implantation; data analysis and presentation; management of lab equipment; record keeping; coordinating with EH&S for lab safety; placing orders for animals and other required laboratory equipment; and maintenance of accuracy inventories of animals; euthanasia of animals. In addition, incumbent will be trained to perform histology as needed.

• Theoretical knowledge in neurosciences, biology, physiology, or a related field.

• Demonstrated skilled in the proper handling of small animals.

• Proven ability to conduct Behavioral Experiments/Physiology Experiments with rats and mice.

• Thorough knowledge and ability to use specialized equipment to record behavioral and physiological experiments.

• Knowledge and ability to collect, input, summarize, and analyze data from all laboratory testing instruments, including making formal graphs.

• Demonstrated experience with calculating dosages, dissolving a variety of chemicals, and administering dosages.

• Knowledge of laboratory safety precautions, including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, and use of protective gear such as gloves and googles. Familiarity with Material Safety Data Sheets.

• Proven understanding of physiological/neural dysfunction in neuropsychiatric disorders, and application of neural engineering principles to target and repair these neural dysfunctions.

• Demonstrated ability to perform surgical, behavioral, physiological and histological analyses on animals, and behavioral/physiological analyses in humans.

• Excellent communication skills. Skills to understand and carry out written and oral instructions, interact with participants and colleagues with diverse personalities and educational levels, and successfully organize work process.

• Ability to work independently or as part of a team, with the ability to receive and follow instruction from multiple work directors.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Must be willing to handle rats and mice, and be involved in surgery and euthanasia.

• Available to work a fixed part-time work schedule.