Research Associate, Zebrafish Lab

Overview

This is a Research Associate position in the Giraldez Laboratory, a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research group within the Department of Genetics. The laboratory studies genome activation, gene regulation, and RNA biology using zebrafish as a vertebrate model system. The candidate will assist with ongoing projects on the bench and provide technical guidance to junior personnel, as well as work independently on their own project under direction of the principal investigator. This will involve independent execution and troubleshooting of molecular and developmental biology experiments, participation in experimental planning, and analysis of data. The candidate will perform zebrafish colony management, regulatory documentation, and communication with IACUC, YARC, EHS and other Yale offices to assure compliance with safety and animal requirements. The candidate will also participate in recruitment activities, training, and supervising postgraduates and students in the lab. The Research Associate will contribute to preparation of scientific reports, presentations, manuscript drafts, and research proposals.

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Ability to independently design, execute, and troubleshoot molecular biology experiments (e.g., cloning, PCR, RNA analysis, genome editing, microinjection).
2. Experience working with zebrafish or other aquatic model systems including colony oversight, breeding strategies, and experimental planning.
3. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience preparing scientific reports, presentations, or manuscript contributions.
4. Strong analytical skills with experience interpreting experimental data and drawing scientifically sound conclusions.
5. Ability to work well as part of a team. Enjoys working with people.

Preferred Skills and Abilities

1. Experience with genome editing/ transgenesis (e.g. CRISPR/Cas9-based), advanced imaging approaches, bioinformatics/basic coding skills, mouse embryology, or advanced molecular biology techniques (e.g., sequencing library prep, epigenetics techniques)
2. Familiarity with genome-wide or high-throughput techniques (e.g., RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, quantitative analysis pipelines).
3. Experience supervising or mentoring junior research staff or trainees.
4. Experience assisting in manuscript preparation or grant-related research documentation.
5. Familiarity with institutional compliance procedures (IACUC, biosafety, laboratory safety).

Principal Responsibilities

1. Recommends the design and implementation of procedures and protocols under the direction of a higher-level authority. 2. Investigates, analyzes, and reaches preliminary scientific conclusions related to research planning 3. Ensures data results are compiled, analyzed, and presented properly. 4. Analyzes, develops and interprets scientific results. Maintains clear documentation of results. Prepares scientific reports and papers for research proposals and published reports. 5. Performs independent research and laboratory techniques and participates in experimental research planning. 6. Interacts with internal contacts including the PI, research assistants, graduate students, Radiation Safety and Biological Safety officers, and Animal Care personnel to discuss and evaluate research results and to ensure the smooth and safe operation of the laboratory. 7. Interacts with external contacts such as researchers at other institutions, staff at biotechnology and reagents companies to consult on research methods and to keep abreast of product information and developments. 8. May perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

Master’s Degree in a scientific discipline and one year experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.