Application Instructions:

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

POSITION SUMMARY

Research Assistant I position available in the Kosuri Lab, with responsibilities including performing biochemistry, molecular biology, microscopy, and data analysis techniques, as well as experiments, in support of the lab research goals. Other duties include assisting with general laboratory and equipment maintenance, and maintaining lab inventories and supplies.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

(40%) Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Techniques

• DNA biochemistry (e.g. purification, modification and analysis)
• Protein biochemistry (e.g. labeling, purification, analysis, functional assays)
• DNA and RNA sequencing and associated computational analysis
• Structural analysis of DNA and protein
• Gel electrophoresis (DNA & protein)
• Spectroscopic assays
• PCR
• Cell culture

 (40%) Microscopy and Image Analysis

•  Prepare sample chambers and sample slides
• Operate custom-built optical microscopes
• Operate a commercial Atomic Force Microscope
• Analyze imaging data

(20%) Lab Support

•  Assist with inventory and restocking of reagents and supplies
• Assist with preparing solutions
• Assist with maintaining lab protocols and procedures, including safety procedures
• Maintain and clean glassware and equipment as needed.

EXPERIENCE

Required:

•  No professional experience required with relevant degree.

Preferred:

• Demonstrated experience and application of molecular biology knowledge preferably in biochemistry and molecular biology.
• Demonstrated experience with general lab maintenance, including cleaning, stocking supply inventory, and ensuring the maintenance of a sterile environment.
• Demonstrated experience with data analysis, statistics, and programming.

EDUCATION

Required:

•  Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences or equivalent  

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Required:

•  Theoretical and hands-on knowledge of biochemistry techniques.
• 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.
• Demonstrated ability to record and analyze data accurately.
• Skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with basic computational 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 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 skills in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with personnel at all levels.

Preferred:

•  Skills in setting up computational resources in Windows, MacOS, and Linux.
• Skills in using Linux (e.g. installing software and writing scripts).
• Skills in coding, preferably Python and Matlab.
• Skills in network & cloud computing, such as usage of HPCs for computational analysis.

 SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

•  Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
• Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs.
• Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
• Must be willing to sign a confidentiality agreement.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/MENTAL ACTIVITIES/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

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