Research Specialist I

Job Description

Position Summary:

The Research Specialist I supports research in the Luan Lab within
the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, contributing
to studies focused on visual prosthetic technologies using rodent
models. The position conducts guided research as part of an
interdisciplinary National Eye Institute-funded project examining
the feasibility of the lateral geniculate nucleus as a target for
visual prosthetics, including studies of neural and behavioral
responses to microstimulation delivered through ultraflexible
electrode arrays in both normally sighted and blind animals.

The Research Specialist I conducts electrophysiological and
behavioral experiments, collects and analyzes research data, and
documents and communicates experimental results. Working closely
with postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and other
laboratory personnel, the position contributes to the development
and execution of specialized research activities in a collaborative
laboratory environment.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

All interested applicants should attach a resume in the Supporting
Documents section of the application, preferably in PDF format to
avoid any formatting issues.

Ideal Candidate Statement:

The ideal candidate will have a background in biological sciences,
biomedical sciences, neuroscience, neuroengineering, or a related
field, as well as experience conducting laboratory studies
involving animal models. The successful candidate will be prepared
to conduct behavioral and electrophysiological experiments, collect
and analyze research data, and contribute to the accurate
documentation and communication of research findings. Experience
with rodent models, neural recording studies, and research
data-analysis tools is preferred.

Workplace Requirements:

This position requires working in a laboratory environment and
conducting research involving rodent models. The role requires
adherence to established laboratory safety procedures, animal care
and use protocols, and applicable research regulations. The
position may require standing for extended periods, handling
laboratory equipment, and performing repetitive research-related
tasks. Candidates must be able to work collaboratively in a
research environment while maintaining accurate records and meeting
project deadlines.

Workplace Location:

This position is exclusively on-site, requiring all duties to be
performed in person. Per Rice
policy 440 , work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Range: $42,925 annually

*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA
are not eligible for overtime.

This is a one-year, full-time, benefits-eligible position funded by
grant, soft, and/or restricted funds and may be renewed based on
continued funding availability, ongoing research needs, and
performance.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree
• In lieu of the education requirement, additional related

experience above and beyond what is required may be substituted on
an equivalent year-for-year basis.

• One or more years of relevant laboratory experience. Relevant

academic experience may count toward the experience
requirement.

Skills:

• Strong scientific, analytical, and research skills
• Ability to accurately collect, organize, and analyze research

data

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a research

environment

• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to plan and schedule research activities

effectively

Preferences:

• Experience conducting research involving rodent models
• Experience with animal behavioral training in a research

setting

• Experience conducting electrophysiology experiments or related

neural-recording studies

• Experience collecting and analyzing behavioral or

electrophysiological data

• Familiarity with MATLAB or similar research data-analysis

tools

• Experience working in a collaborative academic research

laboratory

Essential Functions:

• Conducts specialized research and experiments involving visual

prosthetic technologies and rodent models

• Conducts electrophysiological recordings during

microstimulation experiments

• Performs behavioral training and related experimental

activities to assess responses to stimulation

• Collects, organizes, tracks, and analyzes neural and behavioral

research data

• Documents experimental methods, observations, results, and

other research activities

• Communicates research results through verbal presentations,

written reports, and other research materials in collaboration with
the principal investigator and research team

• Contributes to the execution and coordination of research

activities related to funded projects

• Works collaboratively with postdoctoral researchers, graduate

students, and other laboratory personnel to advance project

objectives

• May assist with the administration and coordination of research

projects

• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits

Rice Mission and Values : Mission and Values | Rice
University

Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment
Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our
candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment
without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual
orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic
information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also
provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with
disabilities. If an applicant requires a reasonable accommodation
for any part of the application or hiring process, please get in
touch with Rice University’s Human Resources Office via email at
facstaffada@rice.edu for support.

If you have any additional questions, please email us at jobs@rice.edu . Thank you for your
interest in employment with Rice University.