Senior Research Assistant

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision, the Senior Research Assistant 1 carries out research activities according to established instructions in support of laboratory studies focused on multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. This position supports research projects aimed at augmenting immune responses against cancer cells by performing laboratory experiments, analyzing results, and contributing to data interpretation. The role works closely with the principal investigator and lab staff to execute study procedures, maintain laboratory operations, and support ongoing research objectives through accurate and timely experimental work.

This position will work with animals.

Carry out experiments according to specific instructions and assist with planning experiments to support ongoing research studies by performing basic cell culture of human multiple myeloma cells, conducting in vitro treatment of cells with experimental drugs under the guidance of the principal investigator, and executing laboratory assays including western blotting and flow cytometry using established protocols. Analyze experimental results and document findings in accordance with laboratory and study requirements.

(40%)
Collaborate with lab staff and the principal investigator to conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of larger research projects by contributing to experimental planning discussions, coordinating laboratory activities, and independently performing assigned experimental procedures such as cell-based assays, protein analysis, and flow cytometric analysis to support project objectives. (30%)
Organize samples and analyze data to contribute to large projects. Provide interpretation of data and suggest potential improvements to techniques and procedures. Organize biological samples and analyze experimental data to contribute to larger research projects by compiling results from cell culture experiments, western blotting, and flow cytometry, interpreting findings in collaboration with the principal investigator, and suggesting potential improvements to experimental techniques or laboratory procedures based on observed results.

(10%)
Maintain certain equipment and/or facilities. Maintain certain laboratory equipment and facilities to ensure safe and effective research operations by supporting the proper use and routine upkeep of tissue culture hoods, flow cytometers, and general laboratory work spaces in accordance with established procedures and safety standards. (6%)
Manage supplies of the lab, including inventory and submitting orders as requested. Manage laboratory supplies to ensure continuity of experimental work by tracking inventory levels of reagents and consumables used for cell culture, western blotting, and flow cytometry, and submitting supply orders as requested to support scheduled experiments. (6%)

May assist in training new staff and students on lab operations and maintenance; direct the work of students. This includes providing instruction on basic laboratory techniques, equipment use, and safety practices related to cell culture and experimental workflows, and directing student work as assigned by the principal investigator. (4%)
Perform other duties as assigned, which includes but is not limited to updating lab logs, cleaning glassware, and manuscript proofing. (4%)

Department:
Daily contact with supervisor to discuss research and maintain workflow.

University:
Occasional contact with other departments to share information.

External:
Limited or no contact with vendors to exchange information.

Students:
Contact with student employees to exchange information.

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. Train new staff; direct the work of students.

Education/

Experience:

Bachelor's degree and 6 months of related experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 1 year of experience required.

Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures:
Ability to perform tissue culture, treat cells in vitro, perform basic…