Department of Neurosciences at the UNM Health Sciences Center seeks a highly motivated individual for a Health Sciences Research Tech 1 position to join our research group studying the molecular mechanisms of major depressive disorders, focusing specifically on the contribution of newborn neurons and their neuronal networks on stress response, antidepressant actions, and behavioral changes.

Funding is available through March 2026; continuance beyond that date is subject to the Department's operational needs as outlined in UBPPM #3200, Employee Classifications, 

The Health Sciences Research Tech 1 performs varied, routine technical tasks associated with the execution of health sciences laboratory, clinical, and/or field research protocol. Collects, processes, and coordinates a range of data, samples, and/or specimens, under established protocol regarding method, process, and technique. Performs varied laboratory/clinical tests, field interviews, and/or other research procedures. Performs preliminary data manipulation and assists in the execution of standard research protocol, as instructed. May participate in routine data analysis.

Talented and productive research technicians will also be able to present research findings at local (UNM/New Mexico) and/or national research conferences and serve as co-authors on manuscripts published from the lab. These opportunities are invaluable training experiences ideal for future careers in biomedical research, whether in industries or in academia/medicine, as Ph.D. or MD candidates.

Duties/Responsibilities:

·        Giving intraperitoneal and subcutaneous injections to mice.

·        Breed, maintain and genotype mouse colony.

·        Perform animal behavioral assays.

·       Perform stereotaxic surgery on mice and dissect brains for analysis.

·        Perform routine laboratory tests and procedures for assigned ongoing research studies.

Set up, operate, maintain, and clean laboratory instruments and equipment.

·        Follow good laboratory safety practices and comply with safety protocols.

Document work, including equipment settings, procedures, and results according to lab protocols.

Present research finding for lab meetings and at UNM and potentially national conferences.

Able to work occasionally on weekends as lab needs dictate.

·        Other duties as assigned.

See the Position Description for additional information.

• For individual positions in which driving is a job requirement, a valid NM driver's license and valid UNM driver's permit will be required.
• Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
• Annual TB testing may be required if working in a patient care area.

High school diploma or GED; at least 1 year of directly related student practicum or equivalent experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

·         B.S. in Biology, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, Genetics, or related fields

Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.

Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.

The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.