"Research Associate - Vascular Biology Center"

Job Summary

The successful candidate will join a vibrant research lab focused on mouse models of human disease. The main task will be managing a moderately-sized mouse colony comprising some 20 unique strains derived primarily from CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing. A deep understanding of mouse breeding practices, PCR-based genotyping, and tissue isolations are required. Careful record keeping and database management of mice is also an essential prerequisite. The Research Associate will also help direct Postdoctoral Fellows and students with their own mouse studies. There will be opportunities to engage in cutting-edge genome editing technologies the lab is developing and performing molecular biology assays (eg, Western blotting, qRT-PCR).

Responsibilities

The duties include, but are not limited to:

• Set up cohorts of mice for breeding and maintaining an orderly colony room for foundation mice. Breeding involves both 1:1 (male:female) and harem breeding (up to 1:3, male:female). In addition, timed matings for embryo collection will occasionally be needed. Tamoxifen administration is needed for specific strains used to conditionally delete a gene or activate a reporter used in fluorescence microscopy.
• Weaning, ear punching, and genotyping foundation colony mice, which include PCR, gel electrophoresis and documentation of gels with accurate labeling and upkeep in notebook. Euthanasia of mice to keep mouse census low is of critical importance.
• Maintain, on a daily basis, database of foundation colony of ~20 unique strains of mice. Update 'white board' for real time visualization of strain numbers, age, etc. Maintain daily notebook for use in breeding and setting up cages in colony room.
• Assist postdocs and students with experimental mice held, including assistance with genotyping, euthanasia and tissue harvesting for downstream applications.
• Assist postdocs and students with downstream applications of mouse tissue harvesting, including Western blotting, qRT-PCR and immunostaining of sections of tissues.
• Cross-coverage ordering and lab maintenance as needed.
• Develop new PCR protocols and "Genotyping Schematics" for facile genotyping and training purposes.
• Perform all other related duties/tasks as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Master's degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, cell biology or other natural, life, health care or materials science directly related to the research area to which the position is assigned and experience in research, basic science or clinical laboratory particularly clinical trial research. OR Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, cell biology or other natural, life, health care or materials science directly related to the research area to which the position is assigned and a minimum of three years' research and/or clinical experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Background in molecular biology is a plus. Strong experience in mouse work, including mouse surgery, tissue isolation, and physiology measurements such as ultrasound and blood pressure measurement.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

KNOWLEDGE

Proficient in Microsoft Office and other computer software/databases. Knowledge of cell culture, westerns, databases and spreadsheets.

SKILLS

Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills. Detail-oriented with strong organizational and prioritization skills.

ABILITIES

Ability to maintain confidentiality. Willingness and ability to work with research animals.

Shift/Salary/Benefits

Shift: Days; Monday - Friday (Work outside of normal business hours may be required) Salary Range: $45,400 - $54,080 annually Pay Band: B8 Salary to be commensurate with qualifications of the selected candidate within the established range (generally minimum-midpoint) of the position Recruitment Period: Until Filled Augusta University offers a variety of benefits to full-time benefits-eligible employees and some of our half-time (or more) employees. Benefits that may be elected could include health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, Teachers Retirement System (or Optional Retirement Plan), as well as earned vacation time, sick leave, and 13 paid holidays. Also, our full-time employees who have been employed with us successfully for more than 6 months can be considered for the Tuition Assistance Program.

Conditions of Employment

All selected candidates are required to successfully pass a Background Check review prior to starting with Augusta University. If applicable for the specific position based on the duties: the candidate will also need to have a credit check completed for Positions of Trust and or approved departmental Purchase Card usage. Motor vehicle reports are required for positions that are required to drive an Augusta University vehicle. For Faculty Hires: Final candidates will be required to provide proof of completed academic degree(s) as well as post-secondary coursework in the form of original transcript(s). Those candidates trained by a foreign institution will also be required to provide an educational/credential evaluation. All employees are responsible for ensuring the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of sensitive [patient, student, employee, financial, business, etc.] information by exercising sound judgment and adhering to cybersecurity and privacy policies during their employment and beyond.

How To Apply

Search for Job ID: 288592 Select University Faculty & Staff > External Applicants if you are a candidate from outside the university Select University Faculty & Staff > Internal Applicants if you are a current university employee If you need further assistance, please contact us at 706-721-9365 To apply, visit https://careers.hprod.onehcm.usg.edu/psp/careers/CAREERS/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&Action=U&FOCUS=Applicant&SiteId=12000&JobOpeningId=288592&PostingSeq=1