Research Professional I, Cognitive Aging Research The Cognitive Aging and Neural Dynamics Lab within the Department of Neuroscience seeks a Research Professional to support studies of cognitive decline in aging and Alzheimer's disease risk. The lab combines behavioral analysis, diet interventions, with fiber photometry measurements of glucose levels in the hypothalamus. In this role, you will focus on reliable data collection, day-to-day project coordination, and training undergraduate students in research procedures. You will work under the guidance of senior researchers and contribute to a collaborative laboratory environment. Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona, please visit our website.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Collect, organize, and perform initial quality checks on experimental data, including fiber photometry recordings, proteomics samples and results, and related research measures with guidance from the PI. Assist the PI in coordinating study schedules, sample processing, equipment use, research records, and project milestones. Maintain databases, laboratory documentation, and standardized procedures so research activities and results can be tracked accurately while following set protocols. Follow applicable laboratory safety, research compliance, and animal-use procedures. Assist in laboratory activities, including the use, maintenance, and calibration of scientific instrumentation, emphasizing adherence to safety protocols and data reproducibility standards in all research undertakings. Prepare materials, operate equipment after appropriate training, and assist with troubleshooting routine experimental and data-collection issues. Train and mentor undergraduate students in approved laboratory techniques, data recording, and responsible research practices; review their work and bring questions or concerns to senior lab members. Support literature reviews, progress reports, presentations, manuscripts, and grant materials as directed. Refine draft manuscripts for submission to academic journals, ensuring adherence to all necessary criteria and standards to elevate the quality and impact of scholarly publications.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, biology, biochemistry, physiology, or a related field; or equivalent advanced learning attained through experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
One year of relevant laboratory or research experience. Experience collecting and managing biological research data. Experience with proteomics sample workflows, fiber photometry, optical sensors, or related laboratory methods. Experience coordinating research activities or training undergraduate researchers.
FLSA:
ExemptFull Time/Part Time - Full TimeNumber of Hours Worked per Week - 40 Job FTE - 1.0Work Calendar - FiscalJob Category - Research
Benefits:
Eligible - Yes - Full Benefits Rate of Pay - $47,356 - $59,195 Compensation Type - salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)
Grade: 6Career Stream and Level - PC1Job Family - Researchers & Scientists
Job Function: Research
Type of criminal background check required: - Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive) Number of Vacancies - 1Contact Information for Candidates - Sara Burke, Ph.D. Department Head and Professor, Neuroscience burkes@arizona.eduOpen Date - 9/24/2026 Open Until Filled - YesDocuments Needed to Apply - Resume and Cover Letter
