POSITION SUMMARY

Research Assistant II position will focus on protein and biochemistry. A successful candidate will work half of their time on independent projects and the other half on supporting postdoctoral researchers in the lab. The position will be responsible for establishing and utilizing protein expression systems (i.e., bacteria, insect cell and mammalian) and performing biochemical experiments. Position will be trained in specific techniques and methods in order to execute experiments that are broadly designed by post doc or PI and must be able to carry out and analyze experimental results independently. The overall goal of the research is to understand the molecular and structural mechanisms of T cell signaling.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION

(50%) Tissue Culture

• Independently maintains cultures of human glial cells as well as manages and differentiates human neural stem cell lines.
• Maintains human stromal cells for the purpose of virus production.
• Produces and titers lentivirus from human stromal cells.

(25%) Molecular Biology Techniques

• Perform various techniques in molecular biology such as: RNA extraction and analysis.
• DNA extraction and analysis.
• PCR and rtPCR.
• Maxi preps.
• Gel Electrophoresis.
• Recombinant DNA techniques.

(10%) Histology

• Perform various immunofluorescence protocols on fixed human cells.
• Analyze cells using various fluorescent and confocal microscopes for high power imaging.

(15%) Lab Support

• Performs quality control of reagents as needed.
• Trains and assists other lab personnel on research techniques and use of laboratory equipment.
• Attends staff meetings and assist with general problem solving.
• Assists in Hazardous, Biohazardous and waste disposal.
• Assists with maintaining laboratory safety records.
• Maintains laboratory supplies and equipment.

EXPERIENCE

Required:

• Minimum 2 years’ experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated experience and knowledge of protein- and biochemistry techniques.
• Proficient in the operation of standard lab equipment and computer hardware/software.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of scientific principles

Preferred:

• Fundamental skills in molecular biology and cell culture.

EDUCATION

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and/or related field

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in biological sciences and/or related field

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Required:

• Theoretical and hands on knowledge of histology and molecular biology techniques.
• 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 mixup 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 in an animal-related research environment.
• Must be willing to work with human cells and complete all appropriate associated training.
• Must be willing to work independently and must have a flexible schedule to support research needs.
• Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires constant adjusting focus, seeing, sitting, and working inside. 

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)