Research Technician - Pediatrics Genetics

Research Assistant Position

The Greer lab is interested in how non-genetic information can be transmitted across generations and how non-genetic information regulates complex phenotypes. An increasing number of complex phenotypes, such as physical appearance, energy metabolism, psychological state, and longevity, have recently been shown to be regulated, in part, by epigenetic information. Epigenetics describes how gene expression changes occur without changes to the DNA sequence.

Proteins, RNA molecules, or chemical modifications to histones or DNA can induce these epigenetic changes. How this information, which is not directly coded in our DNA, is passed from generation to generation is still unknown. Understanding the molecular determinants of stable epigenetic memory will provide insight into how environmental changes can affect the health and lifespan of not only the individual who experiences them, but also of their progeny.

Our goals are to identify epigenetic inheritance phenotypes and to elucidate the mechanisms behind their transmission across generations. We also aim to understand how epigenetic mis-regulation can cause developmental defects and disease. In the Greer lab we use the nematode

C. elegans, the social amoeba Dictyostelium, mice, and mammalian tissue culture systems to study how non-genetic information can be transmitted across generations as well as to understand the role of non-genetic information in regulating a variety of biological processes. We use a wide variety of genetic, biochemical, and molecular techniques to decipher these complex questions. Some experiments would entail worm, Dictyostelium, or mouse husbandry, extracting gDNA and proteins from worm and tissue samples, running dot blots and western blots, purifying proteins and testing their enzymatic activity.

The Greer lab strives to be a place of fun, collegiality, and collaboration. Assists with laboratory duties in a research setting; performs routine tests with direction from the supervisor, manager or higher-level technician.

Primary

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Assists the investigator or higher-level technician with research studies, experiments and assays, including collection of data, preparation of solutions and setup and maintenance of equipment.
• Maintains files on research and assists with data entry.
• Assists with general lab maintenance and cleaning.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:

• Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

High school diploma or equivalent high school certification or combination of education and/or experience.

Certifications /Professional Licenses:
No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.

Work Experience:

No specific work experience is required for this position.

Skills:

Not Applicable

Driver's License: A driver's license is not required for this position.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior research experience with any of the following: tissue culture,
  
  C. elegans, Dictyostelium discoideum, or mice.

Grade: R04-H

Salary Range: $16.54 - $22.35 / Hourly The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.