Research Assistant I

Research Assistant I

The Center for Advanced Pain Studies at The University of Texas at Dallas is seeking a Research Assistant I to join the Price Laboratory. This position will contribute to NIH-funded research projects focused on understanding the mechanisms and treatment of chronic pain using both preclinical models and human tissues recovered from organ donors. The selected candidate will provide technical assistance across multiple research projects and will conduct research activities in accordance with approved research protocols. Applicants should have experience with cell culture, patch-clamping, and tissue dissociation. This role offers the opportunity to work in a collaborative research environment supporting advanced studies in pain biology. The Price Laboratory is dedicated to uncovering the fundamental principles of neuronal plasticity that drive chronic pain. The lab aims to translate these discoveries into novel therapeutic approaches with the potential to prevent the development of chronic pain or permanently reverse persistent pain states. Research efforts concentrate on two primary areas: plasticity in peripheral nociceptive neurons following injury and plasticity in central nervous system circuits resulting from persistent stimulation of peripheral nociceptors. To address these questions, the lab employs a broad range of molecular, biochemical, genetic, behavioral, imaging, and electrophysiological techniques, with an overarching emphasis on pharmacology and drug discovery.

Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in one of the basic sciences or an equivalent combination of education and experience in customer service or in daily interactions in a public services environment.

Preferred Education and Experience: An undergraduate degree in Biology, Neuroscience, or a related field is preferred.

Other Qualifications: To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Undergraduate degree in biology, neuroscience, etc. or related degree. Hands on experience in a biology laboratory. Strong technical knowledge of molecular biology methods. Technical knowledge in molecular biology techniques (e.g. PCR, nucleic acid purification) and cell biology techniques (e.g. cell culture, confocal microscopy) is also preferred. Motivation to learn and master new methods and techniques. Participate in human tissue recoveries from organ donors. Excellent communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with all levels of staff. Ability to record and report results with clarity. Persistence, attention to details, and willingness to troubleshoot technical challenges. Other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: This position provides an opportunity to lead and run experiments under the supervision of the PI and postdocs. Provide technical and research support for key laboratory personnel.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions: Physical Activities. Working Conditions.

Additional Information: Travel: This position may be subject to occasional travel for conferences, training, and development, or for other project needs. Remote: Work is performed on-site and in person.

What We Can Offer: UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer with an employee-friendly and supportive work environment. Our comprehensive compensation and benefits package that is effective as of your hire date includes: Competitive Salary, Tuition Benefits, BCBS PPO, Medical Insurance Options – including 100% paid employee medical coverage for full-time employees, AD&D Insurance, Dental & Vision Plan Options, Long and short-term disability, TRS Retirement Plan, Fertility Benefits, Paid time off. All UT Dallas employees have access to various professional development opportunities, including a membership to Academic Impressions, LinkedIn Learning, and UT Dallas Bright Leaders Program. Visit for more information.

Special Instructions Summary: Important Message: 1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public. 2) The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.

Applicant Documents

Required Documents:

1. Resume

Optional Documents:

1. Cover Letter/Letter of Application
2. Curriculum Vitae
3. Veteran Employment Preference - Form DD-214