Posted
March 6, 2026
Start Date
As soon as available
Organization
Columbia University Medical Center (CUIMC)
Department of Psychiatry – Systems Neuroscience Division
Lacefield Laboratory
Position Title
Research Technician
Position Description
The Lacefield Lab at Columbia University Medical Center is seeking a highly motivated Research Technician to join their neuroscience research team. The lab studies neural circuit mechanisms underlying memory and spatial navigation in mice, and how these circuits change during aging, stress-related behaviors, and adult neurogenesis.
Researchers use advanced imaging, behavioral, and machine learning techniques to examine how hippocampal neurons process information during behavior. This position provides extensive hands-on training in mouse surgery, behavioral neuroscience, confocal imaging, histology, and molecular biology techniques.
This is an excellent opportunity for graduating seniors or postbac candidates planning to pursue graduate or medical training. A minimum one-year commitment (two years strongly preferred) is required due to the longitudinal nature of animal-based experiments.
Responsibilities include:
- Breeding and maintaining transgenic mouse colonies
- PCR genotyping and colony record management
- Histology (perfusion, tissue collection, sectioning, immunohistochemistry)
- Mouse stereotaxic surgeries
- In vivo two-photon calcium imaging
- Confocal imaging
- Behavioral testing
- Ordering laboratory supplies and managing inventory systems
Position Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Psychology, or a related field
- At least 1 year of research experience (animal research preferred)
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple projects and work collaboratively
- Willingness to commit to at least 1–2 years
Preferred qualifications include prior experience with rodent handling, behavioral testing, or histology.
Time Commitment
- Full-time position
- Minimum 1-year commitment required (2 years preferred)
Compensation
Paid
Apply
Interested applicants should submit a CV, a brief statement of research interests, and contact information for two references to: Clay Lacefield - [email protected]
