Application Instructions:

Employment History Include your last ten (10) years of employment history, or length of your employment history if less, including all position (even those that are not relevant to this position) and periods of unemployment. Incomplete information could disqualify you from further consideration.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Research Assistant II position is responsible for assisting with research in genetics and diseases in marmoset models. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, she/he will assist in the transgenesis of marmosets and the analysis of the phenotype of the marmoset model, including neuroimaging, behavioral tests, stereotaxic injection, tissue collection and sectioning, immunohistochemistry, PCR, DNA and RNA extractions and genotyping. We are looking for a motivated individual willing to learn colony maintenance such as pedigree recording and the techniques required in assisting transgenesis of marmosets, including reproductive hormone profiling, oocyte collection, in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer. Other responsibilities include data analysis and maintenance of tissue, DNA, and other experimental samples. Individuals will be expected to determine with moderate direction the timing of experiments, analysis, and presentation of results.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

 (70%) Transgenesis and Experimental Support for Marmoset Project

• Significant focus on procedures in transgenesis of marmosets, including reproductive hormone profiling, monitoring animal health during surgery, embryo and oocyte collection, sperm collection, in vitro fertilization of oocytes and embryo transfer.
• With moderate direction from senior staff, responsible for handling marmosets to address routine to moderately complex concerns; evaluates experimental and procedural criteria; makes recommendations for changes; and employs techniques for obtaining results.
• Husbandry and maintenance of marmoset colonies and pedigree record keeping.
• May learn and perform pedigree analysis and establish breeding based on analysis to maintain genetic diversity.
• Performs animal monitoring under supervision of veterinary staff during surgery including but not limited to surgical preparation, anesthetic induction, animal monitoring, surgical assistance and post-operative recovery.
• Assists with MRI/PET imaging, stereotaxic injections of viruses and other reagents, behavioral tests, peripheral injections, biopsies, perfusions, and necropsies.
• Assists with marmoset requests and shipments, maintains animal inventory and attends staff meetings related to scope of work.
• Prepares and presents experimental results at lab meetings.

 (30%) Lab Maintenance

•  Assist technicians and post-docs with experiments as needed.
• Stocks and organize incoming lab supplies as needed.
• Attends staff meetings and assists with general problem solving.
• Assists in writing of laboratory protocols for experiments.
• Assists in Hazardous, Biohazardous, and Radioisotope waste disposal.
• Assists in maintaining laboratory safety records.
• Coordinates with vendors for problems regarding orders.

EXPERIENCE

 Required:

•  Minimum 2 years of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience in a research environment.
• Proficient in the operation of standard lab equipment and computer hardware/software.

 Preferred:

•  Experience in veterinary or animal research support functions such as anesthesia and animal surgical support.

EDUCATION

 Required

•  Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or related field or equivalent experience. 

 Preferred

•  Registered veterinary technician license.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

 Required

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions.
• Ability to manage and track large numbers of samples meticulously without mix-up or cross contamination.
• 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 and able to prioritize.
• Proven ability to work both independently and also 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

•  Experience working with USDA (NHP preferred) covered species
•  Proficient with anesthesia (pre-per-post operative).
•  Experience in marmoset and mouse handling.

 SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
• Must be willing to work with human and non-human tissues and cells and complete all appropriate associated training.
• Must be willing to work independently and must have a flexible schedule to support research needs.
• Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
• Must be willing to sign a confidentiality agreement.
• As a safeguard for employees and animals, this position may be subject to medical or safety clearance prior to working with specific animals or animal populations as required by research needs including but not limited to:
  • TB Testing/Clearance (every 12 months / once a year)
  • Measles (proof of immunity and/or adequate vaccination)

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires constant adjusting focus, seeing, sitting, and working inside.