Job Description

The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine is currently recruiting a Life Science Research Professional 1 to join Dr. Sergiu Pasca’s laboratory.

Our Stanford research team seeks to understand the rules that govern the molecular and cellular steps underlying the assembly of the human brain and the molecular mechanisms that lead to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. We are developing bottom-up approaches to generate and assemble, from multi-cellular components, human neural circuits. More specifically, we have pioneered the generation from human pluripotent stem cells of brain region-specific organoids ( Nature Methods 2015; Neuron 2017; Nature Methods 2019; Nature Neuroscience 2019) and assembloids ( Nature 2017; Nature Biotechnology 2020; Cell 2020), which we applied to gain mechanistic insights into disease ( Nature Medicine 2018; Nature Medicine 2020). Our ultimate goal is to identify novel and reliable drug targets for neuropsychiatric disorders.

The candidate for this position will join an enthusiastic and multi-disciplinary team at Stanford, and should ideally have experience with human stem cells, neural differentiation, primary tissue culture or assay development and high-throughput screens.

For more information on the Pasca lab and research being performed please visit their website at www.pascalab.org.

Duties include:

• Plan approach to experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory.
• Independently conduct experiments, including stem cell culture, neural differentiation, run genetic and functional assays; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.
• Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.
• Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.
• Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
• Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.

*- Other duties may also be assigned

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Knowledge and experience with neurobiology or stem cell biology or molecular biology techniques or cellular assays

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

• Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:*