Research Assistant- IL- Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics

Research Assistant

The Research Assistant provides research support to the research endeavors of the faculty of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics. The Research Assistant is expected to assist in the training of students, design and execution of research experiments, collection and analysis of data, generation of figures and presentations for the collected data, and revising manuscripts that involve these data. This position reports to the Chair of the Department.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Performs standard research procedures in cell and molecular biology (western blot, RT-PCR, qPCR, chromatin immunoprecipitations, cell culture and harvesting of human cell lines, immunofluorescence (IF), RNA & DNA purification, molecular cloning, etc.) under supervision of principal investigators
• Performs other duties that will include working with laboratory animals.
• Assists in the development of new protocols
• Provides direction and guidance to students conducting research in the labs.
• Assists PI's with trouble-shooting and problem-solving solutions to technical problems.
• Graphs and analyzes data.
• Performs literature searches for protocols and approaches
• Keeps accurate lab notebooks for each lab where they work within the department
• Responsible for maintaining cleanliness, repair, and organization of laboratories
• Responsible for recordkeeping, maintenance and disposal associated with lab equipment and chemicals
• Adheres to laboratory safety procedures
• Obtains quotes and performs ordering and receiving duties for lab supplies
• Contributes to abstract submissions and poster and manuscript preparation

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Must be able to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner and have regular, predictable, in-person attendance. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Education and/or

Experience:

Bachelor's degree in biological sciences related field with some relevant laboratory experience (0 – 2 years). Previous laboratory experience in molecular biology techniques including western blot, PCR, and cell culture is preferred.

Computer

Skills:

Computer proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) required. Experience with Statistics, Graphing and Imaging software is desirable.

Physical Requirements:

This individual is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, talk and hear. This individual is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel crouch or crawl, taste or smell. This individual is frequently required to lift up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Close and distance vision correctable to 20/20 in both eyes, ability to distinguish depth and shades of grey scale.

Work Environment:
Individuals will occasionally work near moving mechanical parts, be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electric shock, radiation and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.