DESCRIPTION

Under supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI), the incumbent will assist in research on stem cell and tissue culture maintenance by performing sterile techniques, media preparation and changes utilizing CRISPR and other gene editing technology. Will perform basic biological techniques including DNA/RNA extraction, cloning, western blots, qPCR. Incumbent will manage the mouse colony and perform basic mouse husbandry duties. In addition, incumbent will perform cell culture and tissue preparation by performing mouse perfusion, sectioning brain tissue, utilizing immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy.

The Staff Research Associate will organize and maintain laboratory, order supplies and equipment, help to oversee undergraduate laboratory employees if applicable, serve as safety coordinator, and perform other laboratory research duties.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical and practical background and knowledge in Molecular, Cell Biology, Neurobiology / Neurosciences and Biochemistry acquired through a BS degree or higher in Biology or related field OR an equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience.

• Knowledge of scientific terminology related to cell, molecular biology and/or biochemistry.

• Knowledge and skill with sterile technique for bacterial culture. Familiarity with basic tissue and stem cell culture techniques

• Experience with phase contrast and fluorescence microscopy.

• Experience with protein purification from mammalian cell culture

• Skill to prepare and maintain laboratory records, files, and notebooks. Ability to follow written and/or oral protocols.

• Excellent (English) verbal, written, and electronic communication skills that facilitate professional, effective, and courteous interactions with diverse personalities. Skill to work as part of a research team.

• Experience with and understanding of basic laboratory equipment (centrifuges, light microscopes, balances, pH meter, incubators, spectrophotometers, and electrophoresis apparatus)

• Skill and knowledge to maintain stocks of essential supplies and reagents, to purchase lab supplies, and to ensure lab equipment is running efficiently.

• Knowledge/understanding and at least some experience with Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication and Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Familiarity with a Chemical Hygiene Plan addressing safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, use of protective items. Willingness and ability to keep safety training current and consistent with research involvement.

• Familiarity with Apple and PC computers and ability to work independently with a variety of computer applications such as Microsoft Office, with willingness and ability to update and increase skills and knowledge as needed. Skill to set up and maintain computerized databases of plasmid and cell line inventories.

• Ability to learn new experimental methods as required. Ability to work independently or collaboratively on a research project.

• Basic mathematical computation skills required to maintain accurate data and to prepare reagent solutions.

• Experience with biological methods and procedures including cloning, mRNA synthesis, PCR, western blot analysis, DNA/RNA isolation.

• Well-versed 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

• Experience with rodents as the primary experimental system.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Willing and able to work safely with lab chemicals, bacteria, mouse models and human cell lines.

• Must be willing to work overtime during the evening or weekend when necessary for experiments.