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

The Research Assistant I position is responsible for, with general instruction for routine work, performing various cell and molecular biology and data handling techniques; library prep, mouse handling, minor mouse surgeries, mouse breeding and weaning, genotyping, flow cytometry and cell sorting, ELISA, 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. Duties include performing research and analysis on projects that involve the study of human and murine B cells.  Carries out and analyzes experimental results with instruction from the PI.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

(35%) Molecular, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry Techniques

•  Library prep for various omics platforms.
• Plasmid assembly and protein purification.
• Cloning.
• Processing of tumor specimens in human and murine models.
• Perform various techniques in molecular biology such as: RNA extraction and analysis.

(35%) Gene Expression Analysis and Dataset Maintenance

•  Perform Gene expression analysis.
• Maintain, update, and organize lab databases.
• Build figures.

(30%) Lab Support

•  Prepare standard media and solutions.
• Perform weekly inventory of lab supplies.
• Stock and organize incoming lab supplies.
• Clean glassware and equipment as needed.
• 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:

•  No professional experience required with relevant Bachelor’s degree or above.
•  Demonstrated experience and application of molecular biology knowledge preferably in data mining, biochemistry and cell culture, which may be obtained via coursework or professional experience.
•  Demonstrated experience with general lab maintenance, including cleaning, stocking supply inventory, and ensuring the maintenance of a sterile environment, which may be obtained via coursework or professional experience.  

Preferred:

• 1 or more years of experience as a lab technician, research assistant, or equivalent.

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.
• 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 enter into 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 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.

 SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

•  Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
• Satisfactory completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
• Must be willing to work independently and must have a flexible schedule to support research needs.
• Willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/MENTAL ACTIVITIES/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, hearing, keying, seeing, sitting, talking, analyzing, calculating, communicating, reading, reasoning, writing and working inside.