Job Description

Department

SSD Institute for Mind and Biology: Staff and Temporary Employees

About the Department

The Prendergast and Kay Laboratories at the University of Chicago investigate how environmental and sensory signals influence brain function, behavior, and physiology across multiple levels of analysis. The position will involve collaborative work across both laboratories.
The Kay Laboratory studies olfactory processing, neural oscillations, cognition, and sensory coding in freely behaving rats. Research in the laboratory focuses on olfactory neurophysiology, electrophysiology, sensorimotor integration, neural dynamics, learning and memory, and the neural mechanisms underlying odor perception and cognitive function. Experimental approaches include behavioral assays, in vivo
electrophysiological recordings, computational analyses, and cognitive neuroscience methods. The Prendergast Laboratory studies the neuroendocrine and neuroimmune mechanisms through which organisms track and respond to seasonal and environmental change. Using rodent models, the lab examines how photoperiod, inflammation, and peripheral physiological signals influence brain function and behavior. Research approaches span behavioral neuroendocrinology, molecular biology, immunology, and systems neuroscience.The job performs routine assignments related to scientific research projects. Ensures compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives and mandates. Analyzes possible solutions using standard procedures. Writes articles, reports and manuscripts. Assists in drafting presentations on research findings.

We seek a motivated Research Analyst to support ongoing and developing projects jointly conducted in the Prendergast and Kay Laboratories. The successful candidate will assist with rodent behavioral experiments, electrophysiological and molecular neuroscience studies, and laboratory operations. The position includes hands-on experience with rat and mouse models, olfactory behavioral paradigms, neuroendocrine tissue collection, electrophysiological recordings, and molecular techniques in a collaborative and intellectually rigorous environment.

This position provides the opportunity to gain broad interdisciplinary training at the intersection of systems neuroscience, neuroendocrinology, olfaction, electrophysiology, and cognitive neuroscience in a highly collaborative research environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist with behavioral neuroscience experiments involving olfaction, learning, memory, and sensory-guided behavior in rats and mice.
• Support electrophysiological experiments including setup, recording assistance, signal monitoring, and organization of neural data files.
• Conduct wet-laboratory experiments including tissue dissection, sample processing, and sample archiving using RNAlater, liquid nitrogen, and related preservation methods.
• Execute standard molecular biology techniques including RNA extraction, qPCR, ELISA, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting.
• Assist with neural and behavioral data analysis, visualization, and maintenance of experimental databases.
• Assist with bulk RNA sequencing workflows, including sample preparation, quality control, and coordination with sequencing facilities.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure compliance with IACUC protocols and institutional research policies.
• Conduct literature reviews and assist with preparation of manuscripts, presentations, and grant reports.
• Collaborate closely with faculty investigators, graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and other laboratory personnel on experimental design and troubleshooting.
• Installs, sets up and performs experiments; interacting with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator.
• Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.
• Perform other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Master’s degree in neuroscience, biology, psychology, physiology, cognitive science, biomedical sciences, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• Priorrodenthandling experience.
• Experience with rat or mouse behavioral neuroscience experiments.
• Experience with olfactory behavioral assays, electrophysiology, or neural recording techniques.
• Familiarity with cognitive neuroscience, systems neuroscience, or computational approaches to neural data analysis.
• Proficiency in one or more molecular techniques including RNA extraction, qPCR, ELISA, immunohistochemistry, or western blotting.
• Strong organizational skills and careful attention to experimental detail.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment.
• Interest in olfaction, neural oscillations, cognition, neuroendocrinology, circadian or seasonal biology, or brain-body communication.

Working Conditions

• Wet laboratory and animal facility environment.
• Regular work with rats and mice in behavioral and neuroscience research settings.
• Exposure to laboratory chemicals and electrophysiology equipment; appropriate PPE training and use required.
• Regular periods of standing, bench work, and computer-based data analysis.
• Some schedule flexibility may be required to accommodate animal care and experimental timelines.

Application Documents

• Curriculum vitae or résumé (required)
• Cover letter describing research background and interest in neuroscience research (required)
• Contact information for three professional references (required)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range

$50,150.00 - $64,900.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

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