"Life Science Research Professional 1"

A successful future member of the lab will be a team player ready to be organized, solve problems, and communicate his/her findings effectively. We welcome candidates with a growth mindset and an interest in neuromuscular disorders and a willingness to take on challenging learning opportunities. Candidates will have opportunity to develop their career in translational research, present findings at national/international conferences and participate in scientific manuscript publications. Lab website: https://med.stanford.edu/day-lab.html

Perform basic functions and activities involved in defined research projects and independently conduct and analyze experiments. The Neuro IGNITE Center Lab in the Department of the Neurology and Neuromuscular Sciences is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of patients by developing and improving cutting edge therapies for neuromuscular disorders. The lab also conducts scientific hypothesis driven research to identify biomarkers and characterize natural history of neuromuscular diseases, run clinical drug trials and a biobank to share valuable samples with other researchers. The lab studies epigenetic, transcriptomic, proteomic and immunologic characteristics of neuromuscular disorders such as SMA, ALS, GNE Myopathy, Muscular Dystrophies, and FSHD.

The LSRP1 will be involved in multiple defined research projects and will be responsible for independently conducting experiments and analyzing data with guidance from the PI and senior lab staff. They will assist in processing patient samples such as blood, cerebrospinal fluid, muscle biopsies and, autopsies. Specifically, they will be doing cell culture, molecular profiling (DNA sequencing, RNA sequencing), molecular biology work such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, western blot, immunologic biomarker analysis on a variety of patient samples using flow cytometry platform and in vitro cell culture assays on peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The position also includes lab management tasks such as ordering supplies, maintaining inventories, keeping detailed lab records, and adhering to safety regulations.

Duties include:

• Plan approach to experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory.
• Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.
• Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.
• Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.
• Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
• Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.

- Other duties may also be assigned

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

BA/BS degree in neuroscience, biological science or related field and 2-3 years of previous lab experience required. He /she should be capable of independently planning experiments and analyzing data with minimal guidance from the PI. The qualified individual would have skills including tissue culture, histology and immunocytochemistry and be comfortable with various DNA-, RNA- and protein-based laboratory techniques including PCR, Western, and Southern blot analyses. Excellent organization, communication and time management skills required.

Computer experience with spreadsheet and word processing applications is highly recommended.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.