Research Assistant III, Laboratory of Genetics, Dr. Rusty Gage

POSITION SUMMARY

Research Assistant position will focus on research support and management and is expected to have general molecular biology skills.

This position supports all projects in the lab.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

(30%) Lab Management

• Laboratory equipment maintenance,
• Compliance Protocols maintenance (IRB, ESCRO and Material Transfer Agreements)
• Supervise all stocking and ordering for the lab
• Maintain plasmid and bacterial stock records
• Supervise student plasmid preps, sequencing and Mycoplasma testing

(50%) Molecular Biology

• Perform various techniques in molecular biology such as:
  DNA, RNA, PCR and RT PCR, gel electrophoresis and plasmid prep
• Have an in depth understanding or nucleic acid biology in both the genome and plasmids

(20%) Strategic planning, Mentoring, member of Lab Leadership Team (LLT), liaise with admin departments and lab managers from other labs.

EXPERIENCE

Required:

• Minimum 4 years of wet lab experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience

Preferred:

• Managerial and/or supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated experience in tissue culture.
• Demonstrated experience in wet bench work.
• Demonstrated experience in analysis of molecular biology data.
• Demonstrated experience in immunohistochemistry.
• Demonstrated experience with imaging analysis/quantification.
• Knowledge of histology, microscopy, and molecular biology techniques.
• Proficient in the operation of standard lab equipment and computer hardware/software.
• Proficient in supervising a large group of undergraduates and recent graduates who have varying amounts of laboratory experience.
• Ability to review financial reports and assist with financial planning and tracking of budgets.

EDUCATION

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or related field.

Preferred:

• Master's degree in biological sciences or related field.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Required:

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions.
• Ability to manage and track large numbers of samples meticulously without mix up or cross contamination.
• Skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
• 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.
• Proficiency with common office software applications as well as software applications used for research, recording, and analysis.
• Highly organized, effective at multitasking, adept at juggling changing priorities and able to prioritize.
• Proven ability to work both independently and also as part of a collaborative team.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility.
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with diverse groups. Demonstrated skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with personnel at all levels.

 SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Must be willing to work with human cells and complete all appropriate associated. training.
• Must be willing to work in a laboratory conducting animal research.
• Must be willing to work independently and must have a flexible schedule to support. research needs.
• Successful completion of the Institute's background investigation.
• Must be willing to sign a confidentially agreement.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/MENTAL ACTIVITIES/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

This position will require constant adjusting focus, seeing, communicating, reading, and working inside.