DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI), graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows, incumbent will assist with Brain Initiative Grant research. This position will perform a variety of standard experimental procedures, tissue and virus preparation, viral injections, and brain dissection.

In addition, incumbent will be responsible for mouse colony maintenance and overseeing mouse husbandry, breeding, genotyping and record keeping. Incumbent will also perform routine laboratory maintenance duties, including maintaining cleanliness of lab space, glassware and equipment; ordering supplies, and following safety protocols.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical knowledge of biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology and genetics, including relevant laboratory techniques, acquired through a Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field; and/or equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience.

• Experience in the preparation of scientific reagents including common buffers and stock solutions

• Knowledge and experience with basic laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, micro-pipettes, biosafety cabinets, incubators, autoclaves, balances, pH meters, and microscopes.

• Demonstrated experience handling mice (restraining, ear tagging, injections, and surgery etc.), brain dissection, tissue preparation and virus preparation.

• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory techniques (pipetting, solution preparation, dosage calculation, etc.).

• Excellent interpersonal communication skills to interact well with others to facilitate communication about lab requirements including the ability to discuss and understand day-to-day laboratory affairs, research plans, results and ideas with PI and other lab personnel in a constructive, professional and pleasant manner.

• Excellent organizational skills including the ability to keep clear and accurate records, organize a varied workload, follow written and oral protocols and give oral presentations on the progress of research in lab meetings. Proven ability to prioritize and schedule experiments and duties to maximize efficiency.

• Proven ability to develop, follow and troubleshoot established lab protocols and lab procedures with direction from PI

• Familiarity with Apple and PC computers and associated word processing and spreadsheet software with a willingness and ability to update and increase skills and knowledge as needed.

• Demonstrated ability to contribution to the preparation and editing of scientific papers, manuscripts, and lab data. Experience presenting research to formal audience.

• Proven knowledge of MSDS's (Material Data Safety Sheets) and the hazard communication and Injury and Illness and Prevention Program (IIPP). Knowledge of laboratory safety precautions including appropriate clothing, safe handling of chemicals, and the use of protective items.

• Willingness and demonstrated ability to embrace and consistently uphold the principles of community for a collaborative work environment.

• A strong desire to work as part of a collaborative team with defined project timelines.

• Familiar with federal guidelines for Good Laboratory Practices for humane use of animals. AAALAC or AALAS certifications desirable. Knowledge of research animal care protocols and procedures as defined by AAALAC and AALAS, and governmental agencies, and sensitivity to the humane care of animals in research.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Willing and able to work a flexible schedule, including occasional overtime during evenings and weekends.

• The incumbent must be willing to work with rodents as experimental animals and have no allergies to them.

• Must have good eyesight (normal or corrected) and dexterity to perform research duties.

• Must be willing and able to work safely with hazardous materials.