Research Assistant

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, perform research work in medical and related technical. The Research Assistant 1 will perform research work in medical and related technical integrating multiple systems immunology tools, such as immunology, single cell RNA sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics, and metagenomics. The research projects are to understand host-microbe interactions that contribute to human reproductive health and disease. The research team collaborates with international partners in Africa, Europe, and Canada.

The research assistant will work with mice. The research assistant may perform mouse basic husbandry, genotyping, research procedures including blood and tissue collection, anesthesia, viral or bacterial inoculations, injections, euthanasia, and necropsy.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involves use of lab skills, including basic laboratory assays, DNA sequencing, flow cytometry, cell sorting, in vitro cell culture (sub-culturing cell lines, analyze cell proliferation patterns, growth rates, etc.), in vivo mouse models, Western blots, DNA analysis, PCR, liquid chromatography, ELISA, mass spectrometry, and other compatible assays. The research assistant may perform mouse basic husbandry, genotyping, research procedures including blood and tissue collection, anesthesia, viral or bacterial inoculations, injections, euthanasia, and necropsy.

(55%)
Conduct analysis of samples in flow cytometry, proteomics, metabolomics, or microbiome. (10%)
Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Record data and create reports on activities to present at lab meetings. (10%)
Maintain records of all activities including protocols, data, etc. (7%)
Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments including flow cytometer, sequencers, and mass spectrometer. (7%)
Order laboratory supplies. to maintain inventory for daily work including sample preparation, tissue culture, flow cytometry, DNA analysis. (7%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned. (4%)

CONTACTS Department:
Daily contact with senior research personnel and principal investigator regarding project activities. Frequent contact department administration to maintain workflow.

University:
Occasional contact with other researchers and collaborating departments regarding on-going project and lab activities.

External:
Occasional contact with vendors, IRB, other collaborating institutions regarding supplies and equipment needs.

Students:
Occasional contact with students to explain data, techniques, etc., and to maintain workflow.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

QUALIFICATIONS

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.

REQUIRED SKILLS

Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within immunology, single cell RNA sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics, and metagenomics.
Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
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.
Ability to meet consistent attendance.
Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
Must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self-starter. Ability to meet consistent attendance.
Good/strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and follow-through.
Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.
Excellent customer service skills; ability to maintain effective working relationships and address the potential and current needs of customers. Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team. Ability to interact with…