Research Assistant I, Immunobiology And Microbial Pathogenesis, Dr. Daniel Hollern

Position Summary
The Research Assistant I position is responsible for, with general instruction for routine work, performing various cell and molecular biology and data handling techniques; library prep, mouse handling, minor mouse surgeries, mouse breeding and weaning, genotyping, flow cytometry and cell sorting, ELISA, RNA expression analysis in support of the Principal Investigator (PI) and lab research goals. Range of duties include, but is not limited to, data analysis and data base management, maintenance of tissue, DNA, and other experimental samples, assisting with general laboratory maintenance. Duties include performing research and analysis on projects that involve the study of human and murine B cells. Carries out and analyzes experimental results with instruction from the PI.
Essential Functions
(35%) Molecular, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry Techniques

• Cloning.
• Processing of tumor specimens in human and murine models.
• Plasmid assembly and protein purification.
• Library prep for various omics platforms.
• Perform various techniques in molecular biology such as: RNA extraction and analysis.

(35%) Gene Expression Analysis and Dataset Maintenance

• Maintain, update, and organize lab databases.
• Perform Gene expression analysis.
• Build figures.

(30%) Lab Support

• Attend staff meetings and assist with general problem solving.
• Clean glassware and equipment as needed.
• Stock and organize incoming lab supplies.
• Assist in maintaining laboratory safety records.
• Prepare standard media and solutions.
• Perform weekly inventory of lab supplies.
• Assist in Hazardous, Biohazardous, and Radioisotope waste disposal.

Experience
Required:

• No professional experience required with relevant Bachelor’s degree or above.
• Demonstrated experience with general lab maintenance, including cleaning, stocking supply inventory, and ensuring the maintenance of a sterile environment, which may be obtained via coursework or professional experience.
• Demonstrated experience and application of molecular biology knowledge preferably in data mining, biochemistry and cell culture, which may be obtained via coursework or professional experience.

Preferred

• 1 or more years of experience as a lab technician, research assistant, or equivalent.

EDUCATION
Required

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or related scientific discipline required. Bachelor's degrees in a different discipline and a minimum of 2 years of experience in a scientific role will be considered in lieu.

Required
SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrated ability to record data accurately and enter into appropriate medium.
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with diverse groups. Demonstrated skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with personnel at all levels.
• Ability to learn and carry out new experimental procedures with accuracy and efficiency. Demonstrated ability to follow verbal and/or written protocols, including follow-up on previously begun procedures.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility.
• Proven ability to work both independently and also as part of a collaborative team.
• Theoretical and hands on knowledge of tissue culture and molecular biology techniques.
• Highly organized, effective at multitasking, adept at juggling changing priorities
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with both PC and MAC operating systems, standard business office equipment and commonly used software and tools, such as Microsoft Office, electronic mail, and the internet.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
• Proficiency with common office software applications as well as software applications used for research, recording, and analysis.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Must be willing to work independently and must have a flexible schedule to support research needs.
• Willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
• Satisfactory completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
• Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.

The salary range for this position is $18.02 to $21.00 hourly.
Physical Requirements/Mental Activities/Environmental Conditions
This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, hearing, keying, seeing, sitting, talking, analyzing, calculating, communicating, reading, reasoning, writing and working inside.