Associate Scientist

Overview

The Associate Scientist collaborates with and assists investigators or other scientists in the planning, development, and implementation of laboratory, clinical, and/or field research studies. Designs and independently executes standard research methods, protocols, and procedures. This individual will be responsible for performing a combination of proteomic sample preparation and analysis, metabolite preparation and analysis, reporting of results to investigators, and shared routine laboratory maintenance responsibilities.

Meticulous attention to detail and accurate record keeping are required. The Associate Scientist will work independently on assigned projects requiring advanced technical skills. In collaboration with the entire team, the Associate Scientist will need to exhibit proficiency in troubleshooting skills as numerous projects will involve new method/protocol development.

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in the biological sciences, biochemistry, chemistry, or related degree with a 2 years work experience in which wet lab techniques and mass spectrometry operations were major job responsibilities.
• Degree in the biological sciences, biochemistry, chemistry, or related degree with a minimum of 2 years work experience in which wet lab techniques were major job responsibilities. Bachelor’s Degree with 1-2 years of hands-on experience in operation of mass spectrometers is minimum.
• Demonstrated expertise in lab techniques with an emphasis on protein extraction, metabolite extraction, and protein quantification.
• Mass spectrometry experience, including related sample preparation and instrument maintenance.
• Capable of understanding, implementing, and troubleshooting laboratory protocols. Identifies problems, troubleshoots and analyzes variations observed and reported in regular testing protocols; modifies, refines or adapts techniques and procedures; modifies and/or adjusts quality control measures.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct experiments, interpret data and present findings; detailed record keeping and clear reporting to supervisor.
• Excellent organizational skills, ability to prioritize multiple demands, and work efficiently under pressure in a dynamic laboratory environment.
• Demonstrated team player with a professional, positive attitude and willingness to be flexible.
• Detail oriented, flexible, ability to multi-task and remain focused.
• Proven written and oral communication skills sufficient to permit clear and effective exchange of information.
• Monitoring of records, reliable and accurate record keeping, observation of procedures, and reports generated as needed.
• Maintains laboratory status with adherence to strict quality standards and minimal contamination risk.

Routine/Non-Routine Laboratory Tasks

• Instrument maintenance
• Laboratory organization
• Workstation and laboratory sanitation
• Inventory control and ordering
• Working with the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
• Training other lab members on new techniques/SOPs as needed
• Mentoring new lab members, student interns, or summer students in the lab

Project Management, Experimental Support, & Specialized Laboratory Projects

• Performing SOPs in the laboratory setting independently
• Contribute to the development of new SOPs in the laboratory
• Learning new experimental techniques through training by senior lab personnel as needed
• Perform common lab techniques with a focus in protein extraction, metabolite extraction, and protein quantification. Use protein biochemistry methodology to process biological samples
• Detailed record keeping, data analysis, report generation, and conveying results to investigators
• Working in collaboration with other members of the Protein Sciences team
• Ability to meet flexible and changing demands including occasional hours on weekends
• Ability to work flexible schedule depending on research/operational needs