Laboratory​/Technical Assistant; Casual

Laboratory/Technical Assistant (Casual)

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is a leading national research university and the State of New Jersey's preeminent, comprehensive public institution of higher education. As one of the largest employers in the State of New Jersey, Rutgers University is committed not only to the students and the State that we serve, but also to the faculty and staff who work on our campuses.

For two consecutive years, Rutgers is ranked on Forbes' list of America's Best Large Employers. Rutgers holds #64 of 500 employers and is the #1 New Jersey employer on the publication's 2023 list. Rutgers' commitment to its employees includes maintaining and fostering a safe, diverse, and respectful workplace environment, creating employment opportunities for our nation's military veterans, and ensuring accessibility and accommodation for individuals with disabilities.

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a Laboratory/Technical Assistant for the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry within the Waksman Institute. The laboratory is within the Waksman Institute, joint with the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, and conducts molecular, genetic, neurophysiological and behavioral research on questions related to Drosophila circadian nervous system function and behavior in response to salient internal and external cues.

The individual will report directly to the laboratory Principal Investigator (PI). Among the key duties of this position are the following:
Supports research investigating molecular, cellular, and behavioral responses to traumatic brain injury Drosophila. Participates in tool development for fly brain imaging and analysis. Conducts research on questions related to Drosophila glial cell biology and genetics, with a focus on designing inhaled drug delivery systems for Drosophila.

FLSA
- Nonexempt

Salary Details - $18 - $22 per hour

Offer Information
- The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.

Benefits
- Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable) Life insurance coverage Employee discount programs

Position Status
- Part Time

Working Hours - 19.5 hours per week

Daily Work Shift

Work Arrangement
- This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement.

Payroll Designation
- People Soft

Terms of Appointment
- Temporary Staff Appointment
- Hourly

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Cell Biology or a related subfield (e.g., Genetics, Neurobiology), or an equivalent combination of education and/or relevant laboratory technician or research study experience carrying out research protocols and tests, or other technical work may be substituted for the degree.

Certifications/Licenses

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Familiarity with data management, statistics, and data visualization. Basic skills such as pipetting, creating molar solutions, running agarose and protein gels, planning genetic crosses of model organisms, and keeping laboratory records. Prior training in a molecular biology or genetics lab setting through course work or internship. Familiar with Drosophila husbandry, Drosophila genetics, use of genetically encoded indicators of cell physiology, design, performance and analysis of circadian behavioral assays and execution of q-RT-PCR experiments.

Preferred Qualifications
- One year of experience with Drosophila behavioral assays and/or laboratory research experience in a Drosophila lab.

Equipment Utilized
- Microsoft Office, Clock Lab, and Origin Lab statistical analysis software. Epifluorescence microscopes, confocal microscopes, gel electrophoresis, RNA isolation systems, PCR machines, autoclaves, gas tanks/regulators, Apple computers, Windows PCs, Drosophila activity monitors, dTBI2 injury administration.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Ability to reach and grasp with arms and hands. Work involves possible exposure to malodorous vapors and toxic chemicals. Long periods of standing and/or sitting.

Special Conditions