Research Assistant

Research Assistant

The Department of Neurology is seeking a full-time Research Assistant (Life Science Research Professional
1) to support, manage and facilitate the molecular-related activities in the lab whose interest is in elucidating the role of glia in normal brain plasticity and the pathophysiology of glioma (malignant glia). The LSRP1 will work under general guidance of the Principal Investigator and post-doctoral fellows to assist in research using molecular techniques. Prior experience with isolation/culture of neural cell types, design and validation of molecular constructs for genetic modification of cell lines, and single-cell sequencing is preferred.

The lab's research program focuses on gliomas such as glioblastoma and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) and the microenvironmental determinants of normal and malignant neural precursor cell behavior. Microglial influences on normal neural precursor cell function and the impact of microglial neuroinflammation following cancer therapies on cellular mechanisms of neuroplasticity and brain homeostasis is one area of deep focus. The regulation of normal and malignant glial cells by neuronal activity is another area of particular emphasis and the research group is working to decipher and therapeutically target the molecular mechanisms that underlie neuronal interactions with gliomas.

In addition to these studies of mature neurons in the glioma microenvironment, we also study the influences of neural precursor cells on glioma. Together with these basic studies, the research program executes preclinical studies of novel therapeutics for high-grade gliomas in order to translate new therapies to the clinic for glial cancers.

Duties include:

• Plan approach to experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory.
• Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• 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 to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.
• Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
• Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.

Desired qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and three years of relevant work experience; or Master's degree with two years of relevant work experience.
• Knowledge and experience with FACs analysis, PCR, culture of human and mouse cells, Western blotting, ELISA assays, cloning, single cell RNA sequencing, CRISPR/CAS9 editing constructs.
• Excellent documentation skills.

Education & experience (required):

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.

Knowledge, skills and abilities (required):

• Thorough understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

Physical requirements:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
• Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
• Must…