The Mello (Dept. Behavioral Neuroscience) studies the neurobiology of vocal learning, using as model organism the zebra finch, a songbird species. We use a combination of molecular, neuroanatomical, behavioral, electrophysiological and computational approaches to understand how the specialized vocal control brain circuitry enables male zebra finches to produce complex learned songs. We also study how these birds learn their vocal-motor patterns guided by auditory feedback, similar to how infants acquire speech and language skills.

• Manage husbandry of the zebra finch colony during breeding, post-surgical and/or custom diet protocols.
• Help record and analyze zebra finch songs from normal and experimental birds.
• Perform support histological tissue processing and basic molecular biology tasks, including brain cryosectioning, staining, and probe synthesis and processing for in situ hybridization.
• Assist with viral preps and stereotaxic viral injections of zebra finch brains.
• General laboratory management including handling of purchases and inventories.
• Assist other lab members in performing experiments and troubleshooting,
  attend lab meetings and present data.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in relevant field; OR
• Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience; OR
• 4 years of relevant experience; OR
• Equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Bachelor's Degree in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology or Cell Biology.
• Undergraduate research experience in areas like neuroscience, molecular biology, molecular genetics.
• Computer and data management skills.

• Attention to detail, strong organizational and communication skills.

• Ability to multitask and follow direction.

• Animal handling skills.

• Experience with histology, including tissue cryosectioning and staining.

• Experience with basic molecular tasks (plasmid preps, PCR, agarose gels, etc).

Work is 40 hours per week, normal working hours; some evening and weekend work may be necessary on occasion.

Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu.