Laboratory Research Assistant in Experimental Neuroscience Part-time NEW

Laboratory Research Assistant in Experimental Neuroscience

Lund University was founded in 1666 and is repeatedly ranked among the world's top universities. The University has around 46,000 students and 8,500 staff based in Lund, Helsingborg and Malmö. We are united in our efforts to understand, explain and improve our world and the human condition.

Lund University welcomes applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We regard equality, equal opportunities and diversity as a strength and an asset.

The Molecular Neuroanatomy research group, led by Åsa Mackenzie, investigates the organisation and function of the brain in Parkinson's disease. Using anatomical, molecular and functional approaches, we study brain regions and neural circuits involved in both motor and non-motor symptoms, with a particular focus on the subthalamic region and its relevance to deep brain stimulation (DBS).

Our research combines neuroanatomical studies of human and animal brain tissue with experimental studies in mice. We use histological and molecular methods, together with functional techniques, to advance our understanding of the neural circuits affected in Parkinson's disease.

The research group is currently expanding and comprises the principal investigator, a project and data manager, researchers and students. We are now looking for a committed and experienced Laboratory Research Assistant to become an important part of our experimental research activities. We are looking for someone with a genuine interest in hands-on laboratory work, who enjoys experimental tasks and is motivated to contribute actively to the development and maintenance of a well-organised and efficiently functioning laboratory.

The project is supported by the Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network (CRN), an international research initiative dedicated to accelerating discoveries in Parkinson's disease through scientific collaboration, resource development and data sharing.

We offer a stimulating research environment where you will work closely with researchers and students and contribute to research addressing important questions in Parkinson's disease.

The research is conducted at the Biomedical Centre (BMC), located close to Skåne University Hospital in Lund, Sweden.

Within our research group, we are committed to maintaining a positive working environment characterised by mutual respect, consideration and collaboration. We strive to create an inclusive workplace where all team members have opportunities for professional development, participation and job satisfaction.

As a public-sector employer, Lund University offers a range of employment benefits, including generous annual leave and a favourable occupational pension scheme. We also offer flexible working hours, providing good opportunities to maintain a healthy work–life balance.

The position is primarily laboratory-based and involves active participation in the day-to-day experimental work of the laboratory. Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Tissue sectioning using a cryostat and/or microtome.
• Histological techniques, including in situ hybridisation, immunohistochemistry and various histological staining methods.
• PCR analyses of tissue samples.
• Assisting with stereotactic brain surgery in mice for optogenetic studies.
• Tract tracing and behavioural analyses in mice.

Over time, the position may also involve certain administrative responsibilities, such as chemical management and registration in KLARA and purchasing through Procedo.

Other duties may also be assigned. We are looking for someone who enjoys hands-on experimental work, has excellent practical skills and takes responsibility for carrying out tasks accurately and systematically. Contributing to good laboratory organisation, established routines and a well-functioning laboratory environment is an important part of the role.

Required qualifications:

• A completed university degree (excluding professional/vocational degrees) that included practical laboratory work and experimental training in molecular biology and/or histology.
• Previous experience in neurobiological research.
• Good practical experience in tissue sectioning using a cryostat and/or microtome, as well as in histological techniques.
• Experience of working in accordance with good laboratory practice, including careful documentation and maintaining an organised laboratory environment.
• FELASA-accredited training or equivalent qualifications for working with laboratory mice.
• Good ability to work independently as well as collaboratively, follow instructions, and report results both verbally and in writing.

Great emphasis will be placed on personal qualities. We are looking for someone who is meticulous, organised, reliable and responsible, with good interpersonal skills and a positive approach to their work.

Desirable qualifications:

• Education specialising in molecular biology, histology or neuroscience.
• Good knowledge of brain anatomy and function.
• Practical experience of one or more of the following techniques: PCR-based genotyping, in situ hybridisation, immunohistochemistry, optogenetics and behavioural analyses in mice.
• Experience in stereotactic surgery, viral vector delivery and/or tract tracing.
• Excellent practical skills and a genuine interest in hands-on laboratory and experimental work.
• Willingness and ability to take responsibility for the laboratory's daily routines, maintain good organisation and contribute to a well-functioning laboratory environment.

The position is a fixed-term employment according to the Special Fixed-term Employment (SÄVA) regulations §5 p1 LAS, and it is full-time. The desired start date is 2027-01-11 or as agreed upon, with an end date of 2028-01-10.

Applications are to be submitted via the University's recruitment system. The application should include a CV and a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application should also include a degree certificate or equivalent and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (copies of grade transcripts, details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.).