Axo Neurotech develops biohybrid neural interfaces: living cells cultured on ultra-thin, flexible electrode arrays, so the cell layer integrates with surrounding nerve tissue while the electronics record, stimulate and transmit. The team is based in Palo Alto.

About the role

This role supports rodent preclinical studies for implantable neurotechnology programs, focused on hands-on execution of survival and terminal procedures: surgical preparation, intraoperative assistance, anesthesia and recovery support, post-operative monitoring, rodent handling, animal training for behavioral or recording workflows, study documentation, and routine electrophysiology recording sessions.

Husbandry is handled by a vivarium partner, so the focus is research execution rather than daily cage-side husbandry. The work is primarily with rats, with potential future mouse work and possible support for large-animal studies at partner facilities.

What you will do

• Assist with survival and terminal procedures, including surgical preparation, intraoperative support, anesthesia monitoring, recovery support and procedure documentation.
• Prepare animals, equipment, supplies and procedure areas for study activities.
• Perform post-operative checks covering implant-site monitoring, externalized device checks, weight tracking and behavior observations, escalating welfare concerns.
• Support animal training for behavioral, handling or recording workflows.
• Conduct routine electrophysiology recording sessions using approved equipment and established SOPs.
• Maintain clear study records, following IACUC-approved protocols, SOPs and humane endpoint criteria.
• Assist with sample collection, tissue handling and downstream histology coordination.
• Own operational readiness for in vivo and in vitro workflows, including inventory, restocking and equipment readiness.

What they are looking for

• 3+ years in laboratory animal research, veterinary technology, preclinical research or neuroscience.
• Experience handling rodents, especially rats, and comfort working with animals during surgical and recording workflows.
• Ability to follow detailed SOPs with consistency, and strong documentation habits in a regulated environment.
• Comfort working hands-on with delicate devices, cables, connectors and implants.
• Nice to have: RVT, LVT, CVT, ALAT, LAT or LATG certification, rodent survival surgery, electrophysiology or neural implant experience, and work under IACUC-approved protocols.

This is a full-time, non-exempt role and requires occasional early, late or weekend checks when study schedules demand it.