Research Assistant - Physiology
Summary
Midwestern University – Glendale campus invites applications for a Research Assistant position in the Department of Physiology within the College of Graduate Studies. This position supports a grant-funded research program in reproductive physiology and toxicology focused on the effects of environmental chemicals on reproductive function. This is a full-time, grant-funded position, and continued employment is contingent upon ongoing grant support. The work schedule may vary between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday
The Research Assistant will play a central role in in vivo mouse-based research, with primary responsibility for the management and experimental use of mouse models. This includes maintaining and overseeing mouse colonies, coordinating breeding strategies, performing animal handling and sample collection, and ensuring compliance with all animal care and use protocols.
In addition to animal work, the Research Assistant will provide technical and administrative support for daily laboratory operations, assist with molecular and cellular experiments, train students, and contribute to data collection, analysis, and preparation of research outputs. The position operates under the direct supervision of a faculty member in the Physiology department and involves regular interaction with students and research staff.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform research procedures in support of ongoing experimental studies under the direction of the Principal Investigator or senior lab member.
- Lead all aspects of mouse colony management, including breeding strategy design, genotyping coordination, recordkeeping, and maintenance of colony health and productivity.
- Conduct in vivo mouse experiments, including animal handling, dosing, tissue collection, and necropsy in accordance with approved IACUC protocols.
- Execute experimental procedures using mouse models to investigate reproductive physiology and toxicology endpoints, including coordination of timed matings and developmental studies.
- Ensure strict adherence to institutional animal care and use guidelines, maintaining compliance with all regulatory and safety standards.
- Assist with molecular and cellular laboratory techniques (e.g., RNA/protein extraction, qPCR, histology, immunohistochemistry) using tissues derived from mouse studies.
- Support data collection, management, and analysis; assist in preparation of figures, abstracts, posters, and manuscripts.
- Train and mentor students in mouse handling, colony management, and laboratory techniques, as well as safety procedures and proper recordkeeping.
- Maintain accurate laboratory and animal records, including colony databases, experimental logs, and regulatory documentation.
- Maintain organization of laboratory space, equipment, and supplies; coordinate procurement of laboratory and animal-related materials.
- Participate in laboratory meetings and contribute to team-based research activities.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, the individual must be able to carry out all essential duties in a satisfactory manner. The qualifications listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. The individual must be able to work in a constant state of alertness, perform duties safely, and maintain regular, predictable in-person attendance. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and/or Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in physiology or a related field is required.
- 0–2 years of relevant research experience is required.
- Experience working with mouse models is strongly preferred, including handling, breeding, colony maintenance, and sample collection.
- Familiarity with animal research protocols and regulatory compliance (e.g., IACUC) is preferred.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment is essential.
Computer Skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) is required.
- Experience with GraphPad or other statistical analysis software is preferred.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
- Frequently required to sit and use hands for handling or manipulating objects.
- Regularly required to stand, walk, and push or pull equipment.
- Occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
- Must be able to lift up to 10 pounds regularly and up to 50 pounds occasionally.
- Vision must be correctable to 20/20 (including depth, color, and close vision).
- Hearing must be correctable to normal levels.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
- Noise level is typically moderate.
- Work may involve proximity to moving mechanical parts and exposure to vibration.
- Occasional exposure to fumes or airborne particles may occur.
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