Staff Research Assistant (Project Management)

Our lab studies neurobiology of homeostasis. For additional information, please visit our website: https://xinxingzhang-lab.github.io/ZhangLab/. We are looking for a candidate who holds a bachelor or higher degrees in computer science or related. Most importantly, the candidate has a clear career goal that will be benefit from working in our lab. If you love science and want to explore the unknowns, welcome! The following is your essential job duties, welcome to expand it to fit your career goal. The candidate should submit a CV together with a cover letter for this position.

Duties:

• Develop Matlab or imageJ or Python code to analysis C. elegans whole brain imaging dataset. For an example, please refer to this link (but our analysis is not limited to the example): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11092512/
• Develop Matlab or imageJ or Python code to analysis C. elegans single neuron or multiple neurons calcium imaging data.
• Develop the code to do the closed-loop tracking on our microscope to cancel the movement of C. elegans on the X,Y stage. You will need the knowledge of computer vision and machine learning.
• Help to organize the inventory database of the lab. For example, work with the PI to get things ordered and enter the purchase history in the database, make frozen stocks of C. elegans strains (optinal), etc.
• Performs various duties as needed to successfully fulfill the function of the position.

What you will be learning:

• Expand understanding of lab safety, protocols, and sterile techniques
• Skills to maintain and use C. elegans as a research animal model
• Pipetting, genetics, microscope imaging, CRISPR and more (if you are interested)
• Scientific communication, literature search, design experiments (if you are interested)

What we offer:

• Completive salary
• Working towards your career goals
• One lab computer will be assigned to you
• Scientific trainings to be a scientist (If that is what you pursue)

Required Education: Bachelor's Degree in a Biological Science, Chemistry, or Physical Science or related field. AND: 12 months research laboratory experience.

Equivalency/Substitution: Will accept 48 months equivalent experience in lieu of the Bachelor's Degree for a total of 60 months research experience. 

Skills:

• Working knowledge of how to safely handle and dispose of biohazardous materials or chemicals following Federal, State, and University regulations and guidelines.
• Detail oriented.
• Ability to analyze data and keep records.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.

Certifications: None.

Advertised Working Conditions:

• Physical:
• Standing for prolonged periods.
• Manual dexterity.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Reaching, bending, and stooping.
• Environmental:
• Laboratory Environment.
• Exposure to biohazardous materials, chemicals, odors, and/or carcinogens.

Departmental Preferences:

• A degree in Computer Science is strongly preferred. 
• Has patience in doing science.
• Ability to pay attention to detail as well as organize skills.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
• Keep a record of the tasks performed.
• Experienced programmer, ideally has experience working with Matlab, Python, and ImageJ (which is C language based).
• knowledge about microscope optics

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.