Research Assistant

Job Title

Job Description

About the Work Unit:

The Department of Cell and Developmental Biology is a vibrant, interdisciplinary environment for cutting-edge research over a scale that spans seven powers of ten, from single molecules to whole organisms. The difference between a test tube and a cell is spatio-temporal organization, and we study molecular, cellular and tissue organization in many of the laboratories within our department, seeking insights into fundamental biological questions and human disease.

This year we achieved the #3 ranking in the nation for funding, as compared with similar departments in research institutions and universities. We are an interactive and highly collaborative department, with a strong graduate student association, outstanding core facilities, a top-ranked developmental biology program, and exceptionally strong faculty. Recent faculty recruits are studying cell migration using super-resolution microscopy, single molecule analysis of microtubule dynamics, systems biology of intestinal epithelia, stem cell biology, and the regulation of plasma membrane composition and aging.

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• Learn methods for collecting and analyzing single cell RNA-Seq data
• Learn molecular genetic and live cell imaging methods to investigate the formation of synapses in the nervous system of
  
  C. elegans.
• Work with Laboratory Manager to maintain freezers, prepare competent cells, ship nematode strains and reagents to other laboratories, order supplies and maintain equipment.
• Prepare sterile media, pour nutrient agar plates, inoculate bacterial cultures as needed.

Supervisory Relationships :

• This position does not have supervisory responsibility.
• The position reports functionally and administratively to the Principal Investigator.

Education and

Certifications:

• A Bachelor's degree in Biology or a related field from an accredited institution of higher education is necessary.

Experience and Skills :

• Experience using computers and programming software, specifically python or R is preferred.
• Experience with
  
  C. elegans is preferred.
• Experience with high resolution (confocal) fluorescence imaging is preferred.
• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards is preferred.
• Ability to collect and process research data and accurately record findings is preferred.
• Basic knowledge and understanding of scientific research methodology is preferred.
• Ability to analyze and interpret statistical data is preferred.
• Working knowledge of research techniques, instrumentation, and/or equipment, as specified in the research study is preferred.
• Knowledge of data management techniques is preferred.

• Contract Compliance - VU
• Data Capture - VU
• Experimentation - VU
• Quality Control - VU
• Quantitative Research - VU
• Regulatory Compliance - VU
• Report Writing - VU
• Research Ethics - VU
• Research Funding - VU
• Research Methodologies - VU

At Vanderbilt University, our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running.

We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

• Job Identification
• Locations Nashville, TN, United States (On-site)
• Job Schedule Full time
• Job Category Research
• Job Function Core Research and Laboratory
• Management Level Service & Support 2