The Department of Pharmacology is one of the most distinguished Pharmacology departments in the country. Research interests include seven major areas: signal transduction mechanisms, neuronal communication and synaptic signaling, bioactive lipids, molecular basis of neuropsychiatric disorders, structural biology, drug discovery, and cancer biology. For information about the research in the laboratory visit https://www.cigliola-lab.com.

The Cigliola Laboratory invites applications for a Research Technician position. Our lab is dedicated to identifying novel strategies for reversing paralysis after spinal cord injury. We deploy frontline genetics, transcriptomics, in vivo cellular, molecular, and behavioral approaches in zebrafish and mouse models to uncover innate mechanisms of spinal cord regeneration. We are located within the Pharmacology Department and are members of the Vanderbilt Brain Institute.

The technician will support research in the laboratory by maintaining zebrafish colony and conducting a variety of experimental procedures. S/He will also assist with tasks related to routine laboratory management, such as placing orders and keeping inventory.

We are looking for highly motivated candidates with interest for regenerative biology and neuroscience. Enthusiasm for working with animals is essential. Specialized training will be provided. The candidate will have the opportunity to figure as co-author on published manuscripts.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist with establishing a new laboratory.

• Zebrafish colony maintenance (genotyping, breeding, husbandry).

• Generation of mutant and transgenic zebrafish lines by microinjection.

• Spinal cord surgeries and behavioral assays in zebrafish.

• Molecular cloning and histology (cryostats, immunohistochemistry, microscopy).

• Conduct and compile experiments and assays.

• Order and prepare common laboratory reagents.

• Assistance with maintaining equipment and lab inventories.

• Assistance with compliance for Vanderbilt safety and IACUC policies.

• Participation to weekly group laboratory meetings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Genetics, or related field. Previous laboratory experience is required.

• Previous experience with zebrafish husbandry and/or with Vanderbilt University system is preferable.

• Organizational skills, attention to details, motivation to learn new techniques, good work ethics.

• Excellent ability to interpret information and protocol requirements, ability to multitask.

• Ability to interact effectively with all levels staff and personnel in the laboratory and beyond.

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs and basic computer skills.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Please note, all candidates selected for an offer of employment are subject to pre-employment background checks, which may include but are not limited to, based on the role for which they have been selected: criminal history, education verification, social media review, motor vehicle records, credit history, and professional license verification.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education. Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.