Research Assistant 2 MS

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$31.83

137774WD

The Human Nature Lab (HNL) seeks a Research Assistant to play a key research support role in our biosocial science projects. A major new focus of our research involves the role of olfaction in the organization of social life, where we examine organic compounds emitted by humans for their relevance to interpersonal behavior. Other ongoing and planned projects involve other aspects of human volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds, the relationship of the gut microbiome to sociality, and genetics/genomics and social behavior.

Collection, extraction, and analysis of volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds via skin sampling, air sampling, and the use of GC/MS will constitute a significant part of the focus of this position. The position will also be responsible for cataloguing our biological specimens and maintaining appropriate records, shipping and receiving of specimens, preparing specimens for processing, and supporting extraction or other related technical duties.

Duties may also include recruitment of research participants, execution of study protocols, collection of survey data and biological specimens, and preparation and organization of data and specimens. In addition to these project-specific tasks, the Research Assistant will be the primary coordinator of basic activities in the wet lab, including ordering supplies and equipment, coordinating waste removal, performing and coordinating equipment maintenance, and working with the research team to ensure compliance with EHS and other safety protocols.

The technician may also coordinate wet lab activities with the HNL's broader set of social science projects, liaise with external labs for sample transfers and processing, conduct library research, and prepare reports related to research results and lab inventories.

• Hands-on experience preparing materials and samples for GC/MS instrument analysis along with a working understanding of olfactory biology.
• Proven track record of high performance in a busy wet lab environment including excellent attention to detail and organizational skills, including the ability to manage own workflow on multiple projects concurrently.
• Proven ability to work well as part of a multi-level team including research assistants, technicians, scientists and managers.
• Ability to take a primary role in biological sample tracking and chain-of-custody documentation across concurrent studies including international shipping via courier maintaining cold chain.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, including coordinating with collaborators and vendors across time zones.
• A working understanding of olfactory biology and volatile organic compound (VOC) behavior relevant to scent-based experimental design.
• Ability to track basic lab needs independently related to ordering supplies, submitting facilities requests, and keeping lab equipment in good working order.

• Familiarity with international shipping regulations for biological or chemical samples, including IATA dangerous goods requirements, customs documentation, and import/export permits.
• Experience working as part of an international research team involving large-scale human subjects projects.