Research Technician II — Magee Lab
Location: Baylor College of Medicine; Center for Learning and Memory, Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute
Time type: Hourly
Posted on: 06/01/2026
Primary Work Address: 1250 Moursund St., Suite 950, Houston, TX 77030
We are currently seeking a multifaceted, well-organized Research Technician in the neuroscience laboratory of Dr. Jeff Magee at Baylor College of Medicine. The lab studies the circuit- and cellular-level mechanisms by which cortical representations are modified by experience, and how these learned representations are stabilized to improve behavior. We are currently examining how the various elements of a newly discovered form of synaptic plasticity (BTSP) are involved in producing these stable learning-related changes in neuronal representations in several cortical areas (hippocampus, entorhinal cortex, and higher visual areas). The position is well suited to a recent graduate seeking a substantive, immersive research experience prior to applying to graduate or medical school. More information on the lab can be found at https://themageelab.org/.
In this role, you will support the lab’s research by working under the supervision of research faculty at the Center for Learning and Memory on projects related to the mechanisms of synapse stabilization underlying reward-related behaviors. Day-to-day work includes training mice on experience-dependent behavioral paradigms, assisting in optogenetic and chemogenetic experiments, and performing histological analysis of brain tissue. Because the techniques and projects involved typically take several months to learn well, the role is structured around a full project arc of approximately twelve months or more, during which technicians grow into increasingly independent contributors.
What we provide:
- An immersive lab environment focused on building state-of-the-art neuroscience research skills for trainees.
- Opportunities to perform and master fluorescence imaging, histology, surgery, mouse behavior, and data analysis.
- Opportunities to attend talks and participate in a world-class neuroscience environment.
- A team that believes in continuous learning and cultivates an environment of collaboration.
- A pathway, over the course of the year, toward authorship opportunities and strong letters of recommendation for graduate and professional school applications.
What you’ll do:
- Collaborate closely with research faculty on ongoing imaging experiments.
- Train mice on behavioral tasks.
- Perform neural recording and manipulation experiments.
- Prepare brain tissue for histology.
- Assist with data analysis and visualization.
- Provide organizational and administrative support to the lab alongside the Lab Manager.
- Attend lab meetings and planning sessions.
What You Bring:
- A bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, biology, or a related field.
- Availability to commit to the full project arc of the role (approximately one year).
- Prior experience working in a wet lab environment preferred.
- Previous experience working with rodents in a research setting preferred.
- Preferably, research experience involving neuroscience methods.
- Strong initiative, self-motivation, and capacity for creative problem solving.
- Strong multitasking and time management skills.
- Ability to use good judgment in managing deadlines and responding to inquiries.
- Meticulous attention to detail, with an emphasis on keeping records of experiments and results.
- Comfortable handling live mice.
Physical Requirements
Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about the workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).
Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Please Note:
This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Compensation Range
$20.00 (minimum) — $24.00 (midpoint) — $26.00 (maximum) per hour
Pay Type:
Hourly
Salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. We consider a candidate’s education, previous experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
How to apply:
Send the following to [sachinpv@bcm.edu]:
- A short note (a few sentences is fine) about why you’re interested and what you hope to learn
- A resume or CV
- Your expected weekly availability and earliest start date
- Names and contact info for one academic or research reference
