Speech and language are quintessential human traits. Yet remarkably,humans share many behavioral,neuroanatomical,and genetic similarities with other distantly related vocal learning species,like songbirds and cetaceans. In the Laboratory of Neurogenetics of Language,we are investigating the evolutionary,developmental,and functional origins of these similarities at the level of neural circuits using a variety of model organisms and experimental approaches.

The goal of the Jarvis Lab is to understand the molecular mechanisms that construct, modify, and maintain neural circuits for vocal learning, a critical behavior for spoken language. Studying this problem requires that we compare the genes, vocal behavior, and associated brain pathways of the few rare groups that have vocal learning abilities with closely related species that do not. The mouse has been selected to study the genetic architecture of vocalizations and their neural substrates in a genetically tractable mammalian model organism. This position involves working with mice daily.

Responsibilities include:

• Perform wet lab & animal behavioral experiments as requested
• Maintain a clean and well organized lab space
• Help maintain animal colony
• Participate in weekly lab meetings and twice-monthly small group meetings
• Remain organized, have good communication, and keep clear & accurate records
• Perform related duties & responsibilities as assigned/requested

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or a related field
• At least 4 semesters of prior research experience (summer research internships may count as a semester)
• Must be willing to work with live animals
• Minimum commitment of 2 years

Preferred:

 

Although experience with any of the following is not required, a strong candidate will have experience with 2-3 of the following (all will be considered equally):

• animal behavior or general animal handling
• animal surgery
• histology
• immunohistochemistry
• microscopy
• coding (any language)
• image analysis
• applied machine learning
• microcontrollers (e.g. Arduino)
• electrophysiology data collection and analysis (e.g. neural recording/stimulation, EMG recording, etc.)
• vocal or acoustic analysis.

 

The Rockefeller University does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service or other non-merit factor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to the characteristics listed above.

 

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on various factors, including but not limited to organizational budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The hiring range provided represents The Rockefeller University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

USD $48,000.00/Yr.

USD $52,000.00/Yr.