Job Description

Job Summary/Basic Function:
The Research Associate I will be a key member of the Neuroengineering Research and Dynamics (NERD) lab, led by Principal Investigator Sherif Elbasiouny at Wright State University. This position involves conducting hands-on animal research focusing on motor neuron diseases, with a primary emphasis on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The work will involve both the independent execution of a personal research project and a significant amount of collaboration. The NERD lab is an interdisciplinary team that utilizes a range of advanced techniques including modeling, electrophysiology, immunohistochemistry, drug studies and behavioral analysis.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, Biology or related field with 4 years of experience.
This is a highly collaborative role that requires excellent communication and teamwork.

Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree with 1 year of experience.
Essential Functions and percent of time:
This position requires full-time (100%) participation in the execution of motor neuron animal research. The core duties are distributed as follows:
Experimental Execution (60%): Independently completing a primary research project, as well as assisting students and staff with experimental procedures, including:
Animal handling and tissue collection.
Histology and sectioning techniques.
Behavioral testing.
Data collection, analysis, and management.
Manuscript preparation
Animal Colony Management (25%): Managing and maintaining the lab’s animal colony, which includes breeding and meticulous record keeping.
Student Training and Collaboration (15%): Training undergraduate and graduate students in experimental procedures, participating in data discussions, and preparing manuscripts for publication.
Successful candidates must be willing to be trained in or have experience with these procedures.
5%: Maintain maintenance logs and basic lab organization
Essential Functions and percent of time (cont'd):
Non-Essential Functions and percent of time:
Working Conditions
This is a grant funded position with continuation dependent on funding. Special contract terms and conditions of employment apply. The lab has 3 current R01’s which secures funding through 2028.