Life Science Research Professional

Life Science Research Professional 1 at Stanford University summary:

The Life Science Research Professional 1 at Stanford University independently conducts and analyzes complex experiments within a pediatric stroke research project using mouse models. The role involves experimental design, data interpretation, protocol development, lab management, and collaboration within a multidisciplinary team. Responsibilities also include contributing to publications, supervising junior staff, and maintaining laboratory operations.

Stanford University is seeking a Life Science Research Professional 1 to perform basic functions and activities involved in defined research projects, and independently conduct and analyze experiments.

We are seeking a full time Life Science Research Associate (LRSA1) to join the Mayne Laboratory in the Department of Neurology at Stanford University. The LRSA will work in a small, welcoming, and supportive group studying mouse models of pediatric stroke. The LRSA will aid in the investigation of differences in the glial response to stroke between juvenile and adult responses to stroke, and how this affects long term cognitive outcomes.

Experience with mouse handling/animal behavior and/or immunohistochemistry or electron microscopy is highly desirable. Experience with flow cytometry, myelin biology or lymphocyte biology, and RNA sequencing are desirable. The job would entail performance of independent research as well as 5-10% effort on lab management tasks that are shared across all lab members. Excellent communication and collaborative skills and a two-year commitment are essential.

Duties include*:

• Perform complex experiments for a major portion of the research project. Maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Interpret and analyze results, often where few guidelines exist. Based on prior results, contribute to development of new research protocols and procedures or adaptation of existing protocols.
• Make recommendations on plan design and/or research direction to principal investigator.
• Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.
• Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.
• Contribute substantively to the preparation of papers for publication, especially in the results section. May contribute to publication of findings and present ongoing work and findings to colleagues at academic conferences.
• Supervise (either formally or informally) staff or students as needed, including oversight and instruction on techniques, as well as consultation on project work. Serve as technical resource for other research staff.
• Perform general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed. May assist with purchasing laboratory equipment.

*- Other duties may also be assigned.

DESIRED

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, cell biology, biological sciences, neuroscience, or related field.
• Be able to work independently.
• Be highly motivated.
• Well organized.
• Adaptable.
• Work well within a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative team.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Fluent in English.
• Proficient computer skills (Mac and PC).
• Prior experience in a lab environment is important. Specific techniques used in the lab that would be valuable include:
  • Mouse behavior assays such as Barnes maze and novel object tasks.
  • Immunohistochemistry and Immunofluorescence staining procedures.
  • Confocal microscopy.
  • Electron microscopy.
  • RNA preparation from tissues, qPCR, RNASeq library preparation and analysis.
  • Experience working with blood from mammalian sources.
  • Running a flow cytometer and analyzing flow cytometry data (Flow Jo and cytobank.org) as well as other forms of (antibody-based) immuno-assays (ELISA, IP, bead-based assays).
  • Solid working knowledge of statistics.
  • A minimum 2 year commitment is essential.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree in…