NHP Research Technician – Animal Handling & Behavioral Training

Oct 22, 2026 NHP

Location: i-BRAIN, Shenzhen
Employment Type: Full-time

Position Summary

We are seeking a skilled and motivated full-time research technician to support non-human primate (NHP) research at i-BRAIN. The position focuses on daily NHP handling, acclimatization to primate chairs, and basic motor behavioral training and testing using touchscreen and/or joystick-based tasks, where rhesus macaque monkeys (Macaca mulatta) will be the primary test subjects. The successful candidate will work closely with researchers and animal facility personnel to support consistent, well-documented behavioral experiments.

Core Responsibilities

  1. Support routine NHP handling, safe animal transfers, and preparation for behavioral training sessions in coordination with authorized animal care personnel.
  2. Conduct and document NHP chair acclimatization and habituation, monitoring animal behavior and welfare throughout training.
  3. Train NHPs on basic motor behavioral tasks using touchscreen and/or joystick systems, following established experimental protocols.
  4. Assist with behavioral testing, including task setup, reward delivery, session monitoring, and collection of training and performance data.
  5. Maintain accurate records of animal training progress, behavioral performance, equipment use, and any issues requiring follow-up.
  6. Help prepare, operate, clean, and perform basic troubleshooting of behavioral training equipment, in coordination with the research team.
  7. Follow approved animal welfare, biosafety, and institutional procedures, and communicate closely with investigators and veterinary staff.

Qualifications & Requirements

  1. Bachelor’s degree in animal science, biology, neuroscience, veterinary technology, psychology, or a related field; a master’s degree is also welcome.
  2. Hands-on experience in NHP handling, care, acclimatization, or behavioral training is strongly preferred.
  3. Experience with primate chair training and/or touchscreen or joystick-based behavioral tasks is highly desirable.
  4. Ability to work patiently and consistently with animals, with strong attention to animal welfare and safety.
  5. Good organizational skills, reliable recordkeeping, and ability to work closely with an interdisciplinary research team.
  6. English communication skills are preferred but not required.
  7. Availability to work full-time on site in Shenzhen.

How to apply

Required Materials

Applicants please provide the following materials in English:

  1. Curriculum Vitae (CV), including full publication list and technical expertise.
  2. Any other relevant supporting documents.

Please send the above materials in PDF format and the applicant’s self-introduction to ibrain@smart.org.cn. (The subject of the email: Name + Position Applied).

Why Join i-BRAIN

  1. Frontier Neuroscience Research – Contribute directly to the development of next-generation brain–computer interfaces and brain-wide neural research.
  2. Hands-On Research Impact – Play a central role in establishing and operating NHP behavioral training and testing workflows.
  3. Collaborative Environment – Work closely with scientists, engineers, and animal care professionals on an interdisciplinary research program.
  4. Professional Development – Gain experience with advanced NHP behavioral paradigms and research infrastructure.
  5. Competitive Compensation – Salary and benefits commensurate with relevant skills and experience.