Research Assistant, Chemical and Bimolecular Engineering

The Research Assistant is part of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Vanderbilt University and is a key contributor responsible for day to day operations and experiments. The position will supervise, conduct and evaluate experiments and assays of varying complexity; prepare, operate, and troubleshoot equipment in experimental procedures; and assist in the effective operation of the laboratory.

The Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering department is involved in research and education in the areas of pharmaceuticals, bioengineered materials, high strength composites and specialty polymers, semiconductors and microelectronic devices, and a wide range of ultrapure fine chemicals. The solutions to many of the problems that we face today—e.g., energy, the environment, development of high- performance materials—involves chemical engineers. The undergraduate program in chemical engineering prepares students to contribute to the solution of these and similar problems.

Graduates find meaningful careers in industry, in government laboratories, and as private consultants. Some continue their education through graduate studies in chemical engineering, business, law, or medicine.

Under minimal supervision, plan, conduct and evaluate experiments and assays of varying complexity.

• Plan and coordinate experiments in conjunction with Principal Investigator (PI) and other lab personnel
• Prepare standard operating procedures (SOPs) involving studies of human subjects, and ensure that SOPs are understood and followed by all study personnel
• Understand and follow experimental protocols, including but not limited to the following:
  • Sample preparation, derivatization, and analysis by GC-MS and LC-MS
  • Sample preparation and analysis by HPLC
  • YSI biochemical analysis for glucose/lactate/glutamine/glutamate
  • Metabolite, protein, DNA, and RNA extractions from cells and tissues
  • PCR techniques
  • Western blots
• Record, compile, interpret, and communicate data/results
• Follow University safety protocols (may include use of combustibles, toxic material, and/or carcinogens)

• Recommend equipment and supplies needed for research projects
• Read and follow all equipment manuals
• Ensure that general lab equipment (e.g., hoods, incubators, pipets) are calibrated and re-certified on a regular basis

• Maintain inventories of general lab supplies
• Ensure that cell bank maintains the proper level of liquid nitrogen
• Control and reorder gas supplies for lab equipment
• Maintain sterile conditions as required
• Prepare reagents

• Maintain an organized lab notebook
• Prepare research progress reports or summaries as requested
• Analyze and summarize experimental results in spreadsheets or other electronic formats for data storage or transfer to other lab personnel
• Use custom lab software for processing mass spectrometry data

• Recognize problems and suggest solutions, assist in modifications
• Recommend improvements to established techniques and/or protocols

• Maintain chemical inventory, MSDS, and biohazard compliance data for the lab
• Initiate and manage orders through eProcurement for the research group
• Other tasks as assigned

This position does not have supervisory responsibility; this position reports administratively and functionally to the Professor.

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, or related fields is necessary.

• 1-2 years of experience in laboratory…