"Research Assistant"

Overview

The Research Assistant 1 MS supports specific basic science research efforts by carrying out defined technical and surgical tasks in the laboratory using standard biology, chemistry, physics, and geology-related equipment and apparatus. Responsibilities include following specific regimens or protocols to achieve research goals, breeding and providing care for research animals, performing surgical tasks, acquiring, collecting, inputting, and reporting research data, and maintaining the laboratory for safety, operations, and security. Additionally, the Research Assistant performs experiments, trains incoming lab personnel in complex experimental procedures, manages mouse colonies, and conducts analyses of scientific results which are presented regularly in lab meetings.

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Proven ability to work in a laboratory setting with experience in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, cloning, and cell culture.
2. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize and multitask.
3. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
4. Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and familiarity with laboratory software or databases.
5. Ability to work with and handle laboratory animals, including breeding, genotyping, and performing surgical procedures.

Preferred Skills and Abilities

1. Bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology, molecular biology, or genetics, with at least one year of laboratory experience.
2. Proven experience with animal handling and behavioral assays, particularly with rodents, including operant behavior conditioning and basic surgical procedures.
3. Familiarity with advanced molecular biology techniques such as CRISPR genome-editing, next-generation sequencing, and bioinformatics.
4. Background in neuroscience, cancer biology, or immunology, with experience in conducting experiments involving flow cytometry, microscopy, and histology.
5. Knowledge of bioinformatics or programming languages (e.g., Python, R) for data analysis related to next-generation sequencing and other genomic analyses.

Principal Responsibilities

1. Researches and collects data through complex laboratory/ scientific experiments, techniques, and procedures; library research; structured interviews; or through other means for designated research assignments.
2. Records and compiles information related to research data. Codes data accordingly to research specifications. Uses a computer terminal to input and retrieve data and to generate reports. Processes and summarizes data using scientific or statistical techniques.
3. Assists in data interpretation and analyses. Reports on status of research activities. Sets up, operates and maintains laboratory equipment and apparatus.
4. Formulates and prepares scientific solutions and media. Recruits study participants. Orders and maintains inventory of supplies.
5. May assist in designing, developing, and modifying research experiments, procedures, or survey instruments. May oversee and instruct research staff.
6. Performs additional functions incidental to research activities.

Required Education and Experience

Six years of related work experience, four of them in the same job family at the next lower level, and high school level education; or four years of related work experience and an Associate's degree; or little or no work experience and a Bachelor's degree in a related field; or an equivalent combination of experience and education.