"Temporary Research Assistant (2) Vacancies"

Position Summary

Are you passionate about biomedical or translational research and ready to launch your scientific career? Join Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, as a Temporary Research Assistant in the Institute for Translational Medicine and Science (RITMS).

This is a hands-on research opportunity designed for individuals eager to build foundational laboratory skills, collaborating with leading scientists in a collaborative and supportive environment. You will contribute to studies exploring how cells respond to hormones and signaling molecules that impact respiratory health—while gaining exposure to cutting-edge laboratory techniques and technologies.

We offer comprehensive on-the-job training, opportunities for professional development, and mentorship from experienced researchers to help you advance toward graduate school, medical school, or a long-term research career.

This position involves conducting a wide array of cell and molecular biology experiments, maintaining tissue cultures, performing animal-based studies, and learning to process clinical samples. Key responsibilities include culturing various lung cell types (both primary cells and established cell lines), carrying out human and murine Precision Cut Lung Slice (PCLS) experiments, and performing immunological assays such as immunofluorescent staining, ELISA, western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and flow cytometry/FACS. The role also requires the use of molecular biology techniques including PCR and real-time PCR, DNA and mRNA preparation, plasmid purification, DNA subcloning, and siRNA/shRNA transfections. Although the PI will design the experiments, the Temporary Research Assistant is expected to troubleshoot procedures as needed. This role will also include maintaining accurate laboratory notebooks, conducting data analysis, and assisting with manuscript preparation are essential. Additional duties include contributing to experimental design and supporting general laboratory operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Culturing different lung cell types (both primary cells and cell lines)
• Performing human and murine Precision Cut Lung Slice (PCLS) experiments
• Performing immunological assays (immunofluorescent staining, ELISA, western blots, immunoprecipitations, and flow cytometry/FACS)
• Performing molecular biology techniques (PCR & real time-PCR techniques, DNA and mRNA sample preparation, plasmid DNA preparation, DNA subcloning, and siRNA/shRNA transfections)
• Data analysis and assistance in publication preparation
• Additional duties include assisting in experimental design and participating in general laboratory activities.
• Understands and adheres to Rutgers' compliance standards as they appear in RBHS's Corporate Compliance Policy, Code of Conduct and Conflict of Interest Policy.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Education and Experience

Enrolled in an undergraduate program in biology, cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related discipline.

Equipment Utilized

Tissue culture hoods and incubators, centrifuges, electrophoresis apparatus for proteins and nucleic acids, electroporator, flow cytometry, thermal cyclers, light, confocal, and fluorescent microscopes, histopathology processor, embedding center, microtome and cryostat, ELISA plate washer, ELISA plate reader, ddPCR, qPCR, and other equipment as needed.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Occasional lifting 25-50 lbs., intermittently sitting/standing/stooping, typically sitting at a desk or table. Must be able to work at a computer for an extended period. Must be able to operate specialized laboratory/scientific equipment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Biosafety Level 2 and 2+ laboratory environment working with human and animal fluids and tissue. Requires laboratory safety training. Caustic and toxic chemicals. Handle controlled substances such as pharmaceutical, radiological, or hazardous materials.

Internal Number: 264908

Posting Number: 25ST2552