The Neuroimmunology of Pain lab in the Department of Physiology at Michigan State University seeks an experienced research assistant on a project investigating neuro-immune interactions in pain. The goal of this project is to understand mechanisms of communication between neurons and immune cells that regulate the development and resolution of pain. This is a full-time position. Job duties include, but are not limited to: 

• Troubleshoot and execute new protocols including single cell sequencing and calcium imaging. 

• Perform experiment in vivo (mice) and in vitro (primary neurons and immune cell culture) 

• Maintain and organize large mouse colonies (breeding, genotyping) 

• Handling mice and collecting tissues 

• Administer injections to mice 

• Immunohistochemistry and analysis of tissues via microscopy 

• Conduct live cell imaging experiments 

• Confocal microscopy of cells and tissues 

• Leading and managing studies, including generating and analyzing data for grants and publications 

• Presenting data at lab meetings 

• Prepare solutions, mixtures for general lab use 

• Operates, maintains and monitors research instruments and equipment 

• Maintain lab records and protocols 

• Ordering and laboratory stocking/management 

• Train lab personnel and provide technical assistance to support the research team 

For more information on The Laumet Lab, please visit laumetpainlab.org. 

This is an off-date position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal. The duties to be performed by this position require in-person presence in East Lansing, MI, and they are not compatible with remote work. The position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. 

Department Statement:  

The Department of Physiology and Division of Pathology Division have significant teaching and research missions. The position works with a global community of internationally recognized scholars from diverse nationalities, ethnicities, and backgrounds; two large undergraduate majors (Physiology and Neuroscience) with approximately 1,200 majors combined; the Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Physiology (MCIP) graduate program, popularly combined with professional degrees (MD, DO, DVM); and vibrant research programs in areas such as cancer biology, cardiac pathophysiology, diabetes and obesity, gastrointestinal health and disease, immunity and tissue inflammation, musculoskeletal diseases, molecular metabolism and disease, and neuroscience. The discipline of physiology is uniquely positioned among the biomedical sciences to span the gulf between exploring the most fundamental aspects of biology and the most practical and applied problems of human and animal health. Faculty in the Physiology Department at Michigan State University work to understand how the vast array of molecular and cellular events successfully integrate to define the phenomenon of human existence.  

The Physiology Department Mission:  

• Identify factors and molecules that promote health and disease.  

• Understand mechanisms of disease progression.  

• Improve overall human and animal health through identification of novel therapeutic targets and treatments.  

• Train future scientists in state-of-the-art physiology concepts & approaches.  

The Department of Physiology at Michigan State University embraces diversity in its faculty, students, and staff. We are committed to providing an environment that nurtures and values the inclusion of different backgrounds, ideas, perspectives, and skills. Engaging the unique and diverse contributions of our department members results in innovation and excellence in our research, teaching, service, and outreach. We take pride in the strength of our diversity and our ability to work together with respect and equality. 

Well organized, motivated candidates with a Master's degree level experience is encouraged to apply. Biomedical science research experience highly desired. Ability to carry out job responsibilities with minimal supervision, determine priorities to meet deadlines, and make independent decisions as necessary to serve the functional objectives of the laboratory. Must have excellent and effective communication and critical thinking skills to accomplish independent decision-making and work well as part of a collaborative team. Willingness to promote inclusion and multicultural perspectives and develop and foster trust in a culture of collaboration. 

• Resume/CV 

• A list of three to five professional references and their contact information 

• Cover Letter