Research Assistant I - NOMIS Center for Immunobiology and Microbial Pathogenesis- Dr. Susan Kaech
POSITION SUMMARY
The Research Assistant I position is responsible for performing various cell and molecular biology and biochemistry techniques; mouse handling and colony maintenance, minor mouse surgeries, mouse breeding and weaning, genotyping, flow cytometry and cell sorting, single-cell RNA expression analysis in support of the Principal Investigator (PI) and lab research goals. Range of duties include, but is not limited to, data analysis and data base management, maintenance of tissue, DNA, and other experimental samples, assisting with general laboratory maintenance, including equipment maintenance, and ordering of supplies.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(50%) Molecular, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry Techniques
- Perform molecular biology and cell biology techniques, such as DNA purification, PCR and gel electrophoresis, and Western blotting.
- Independently perform molecular cell biology techniques which include, but are not limited to, recombinant protein expression and purification, cell signaling assays, cell behavior assays, and flow cytometry.
- Mammalian cell culture, transfections, infections, lysing, thawing, and freezing down cells.
- Minor mouse surgeries and treatments including oral gavage, i.p. and i.v. injection and retro-orbital isolation of blood or injection.
- Tumor cell implantation and monitoring of growth.
(25%) Mouse Colony Handling and Maintenance
- Perform tumor studies in mice which include, but are not limited to, xenograft of tumor cell lines and injection of oncogenic lentivirus
- Manage and/or perform maintenance of mouse colony including monitoring and measuring of tumors
(25%) Lab Support
- Assist with cell maintenance.
- Prepare standard media and solutions.
- Perform weekly inventory of lab supplies
- Stock and organize incoming lab supplies
- Assist in Hazardous, Biohazardous, and Radioisotope waste disposal
- Assist in maintaining laboratory safety records.
- Attend staff meetings and assist with general problem solving.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
- A minimum of 1 year of experience as a lab technician (full or part-time) or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Demonstrated experience and application of molecular biology knowledge preferably in biochemistry and cell culture.
- Demonstrated experience with general lab maintenance, including cleaning, stocking supply inventory, and ensuring the maintenance of a sterile environment.
Preferred:
- Mouse handling experience and various in vivo techniques, such as IP and SC injections, tumor measurements and necropsy.
EDUCATION
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences or related field, or equivalent
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required:
- Theoretical and hands on knowledge of tissue culture and molecular biology techniques.
- Theoretical and hands on knowledge of mammalian cell genetic techniques including retroviral and/or lentiviral transduction and CRISPR-Cas9 technologies.
- Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions.
- Ability to learn and carry out new experimental procedures with accuracy and efficiency.
- Demonstrated ability to follow verbal and/or written protocols, including follow-up on previously begun procedures.
- Demonstrated ability to record data accurately and in an appropriate medium.
- Skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
- Demonstrated knowledge and experience with both PC and MAC operating systems, standard business office equipment and commonly used software and tools, such as Microsoft Office, electronic mail, and the internet.
- Proficiency with common office software applications as well as software applications used for research, recording, and analysis.
- Highly organized, effective at multitasking, adept at juggling changing priorities.
- Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
- Strong interpersonal skills, including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility.
- Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with diverse groups. Demonstrated skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with personnel at all levels.
Preferred:
- Knowledge of fundamentals of immunology.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
- Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
- Satisfactory completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
- Willing to sign a confidentiality agreement.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, hearing, keying, hearing, keying, talking, analyzing, calculating, communicating, reading, reasoning, writing and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)