Research Scientist​/Engineer

Overview

The Department of Neurology has an outstanding opportunity for a 1.0 FTE Research Scientist/Engineer 1 in the Neuroinflammation laboratory of Drs. Suman Jayadev and Katherine Prater. We are seeking a motivated individual to further the investigation of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative syndromes using patient derived biospecimens and human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). We are a highly collaborative basic science team identifying cell-type specific mechanisms of neurodegeneration.

This position will perform a range of functions including experimental design and troubleshooting, executing experiments and analyzing data. Additionally, the Research Scientist/Engineer 1 will support the research team with laboratory training and overall lab operations. This position requires performing laboratory research independently with supervision. The main techniques include cell culture (cell lines and induced pluripotent stem cells); neuronal and glial differentiations;

FACS/FANS and standard cell biological techniques: immunostaining, microscopy, western blotting, and in situ hybridization.

Research Activities (70%)

This position will support research activities including but not limited to:

• Maintain cultures of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)
• Perform differentiation of iPSC into neural cells.
• Perform protein analysis such as Western blot analysis, ELISA.
• Perform cell function assays such as phagocytosis, neurotoxicity, cytokine production assays.
• Immunostain paraffin embedded and frozen tissue sections.
• Perform fluorescent in situ hybridization studies
• Collect and analyze microscopy images (fluorescence and confocal imaging).
• Perform molecular biology techniques including subcloning, DNA preparation, RNA isolation, real-time quantitative PCR.
• Isolate cells/nuclei from brain tissue.
• Perform fluorescence-activated cell/nuclei sorting (FACS/FANS).
• Assist with data analysis and figure preparation.

Training (20%)

• Provide an overview of the current research projects, objectives, and the specific role of the new personnel within these projects.
• Mentor and train undergraduate research assistants or new lab personnel in laboratory techniques, safety protocols, and experimental procedures.
• Provide guidance and support to ensure successful onboarding and skill development including lab safety, proper use of PPE, emergency procedures and safe handling of chemicals and biological materials.
• Train new personnel on the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for various experiments and lab tasks, ensuring they understand and can execute these procedures accurately.
• Oversee initial experimental tasks performed by new personnel, providing immediate feedback and troubleshooting support to ensure accurate and reliable results.

General Laboratory Activities (10%)

• Assist in maintaining a clean and organized laboratory environment. Ensure that all work areas, equipment, and supplies are properly cleaned and stored.
• Maintain and update the SOPs, chemical hygiene plan, biological use application, and other regulatory elements needed for lab operation.
• Interface with laboratory inspectors and confirm that all lab operations and operators are compliant.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the PI or designated assignee, which may include organizing lab supplies, purchasing, and facilitating the maintenance of lab equipment.

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biopsychology, Molecular Biology, Neurosciences, or related field and one year of relevant experience

Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Manager.

• Ability to perform cell culture
• Ability to perform immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization
• Good organizational skills and ability take on…