Research Assistant

Overview

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research work in related technical areas. This position supports ongoing research developing and using assays for the detection of various small molecules (amino acids, acylcarnitines, organic acids); testing chemical solutions to improve the stability and preservation of these small molecules and enzymes in biologic samples; and implements predictive artificial intelligence models developed for the understanding of the data produced.

This position involves playing a role in protocol and assay development, and the ability to work with various short-term personnel (i.e. students, and residents and fellows from University Hospitals).

• ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
• Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involving the use of lab skills related to chromatographic separation and spectrophotometry, however, prior experience is not necessary. (30%)
• After sufficient training, independently and with the supervisor conduct analysis of biologic samples such as blood, urine, and potentially cerebrospinal fluid as well as conduct validation and adequacy assessments of the assays developed. (30%)
• Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments, including documentation of equipment usage and performance metrics as displayed by the equipment itself. (15%)
• Maintain records of experiments including formatting of data for use in artificial intelligence tools. (15%)

• NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
• Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments and prepare reagents and buffers as necessary. (5%)
• Order laboratory supplies and maintain the laboratory inventory. (4%)
• Perform other duties as assigned. (1%)

• Department:
  Daily contact with supervisor to discuss research.
• University:
  Occasional contact with other departments to share information.
• External:
  Limited or no contact with vendors to exchange information.
• Students:
  Frequent contact with student employees and various learners from University Hospital (resident and fellow rotators will be present in the laboratory for 2 to 4 weeks for elective time).

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

• Education/
  
  Experience:
  
  Bachelor's degree in science and 0 to 1 year of experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required.

General laboratory environment. Work with biologic materials including blood and urine, and potentially cerebrospinal fluid. Work with hazardous chemicals and regents. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves, and goggles will be provided to limit exposure to hazards. While work does not involve the use of samples with known blood-borne pathogens both laboratory safety and blood-borne pathogen training is required and will be provided.

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• Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures related to general laboratory work.
• Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment (ability to pipette, measure milligram quantities, prepare buffer solutions). Training on the chromatography and spectrophotometry equipment will be provided, and experience is not necessary.
• Willingness to learn and work with custom developed Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and technologies, prior experience is not necessary.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance.
• Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
• Demonstrated history of successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.