Research Assistant (Chen Lab)

BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITY

Toconduct cutting-edge research focused on the molecular mechanisms of obesity and cancer. The candidate will be responsible for lab management and assist in performing experiments in cultured cells and mice using molecular, cellular, and biochemical techniques. This appointment is for a limited duration, anticipated length of one year with the possibility of renewal for a second year.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Research:Perform research activities based upon protocols developed by other research staff or principal investigator of the research project. Read and review articles as directed. As individual skills develop, analyze literature to develop hypotheses for discussion with other researchers or principal investigator.

Experiment, Investigations, Evaluations: Read and understand protocols. Arrange and plan daily activities to prepare for research protocols. Set up and operate research materials or equipment. Perform procedures assuring fidelity to protocols. Recruit, consent and enroll research subjects; perform varied tasks in the research environment (lab, clinic, field, classroom). Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines. Collect, record, and consolidate data as directed by the Principal Investigator. Track progress of research activities. Adhere to Quality Assurance protocols to maintain validity and integrity of research data. As individual skills develop; troubleshoot, analyze, and propose modifications to protocols; perform complex techniques per protocol; test and evaluate current procedures; develop and implement procedures for monitoring data integrity; may present results at team meetings.

Collect, Analyze and Summarize Data; Prepare Reports; Contribute to Manuscripts, Publications:Collect and track data, perform data entry for reports and maintain records of methods used. Prepare materials for reports. As skills develop, analyze data. Prepare bibliographies and abstracts for publications. May present results/findings at team and departmental meetings.

Administrative and Project Management:Assist with IRB, ACURF or similar protocol submissions, if applicable. Track various indicators of project progress and summarize in reports to the research team. Assist in documenting compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines.

Facilities and Equipment Management: Assist in the preparation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory and facility equipment. Assist with procurement of supplies and materials. May initiate purchasing requests, monitor accounts/expenditures; reconcile statements.

Supervision/Staffing: As skills develop, may train, provide directions, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling of students and newer employees.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

* A bachelor's degree ina biomedical related field, animal science, veterinary technology or other related science program or equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible experience in an animal caretaking or research laboratory environment.

* Excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as interpersonal relationship skills.

* Experience with Microsoft Office.

* Previousanimal research experience in a biomedical laboratory with hands-on research.

* Familiarwith procedures and regulations of the Office of Animal Resources.

* Abilityto work independently while being reliable and efficient with time management.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

* Previous experience with working with animals.

* IACUC knowledge and familiarity with up-to-date compliance rules and regulations.

* Experiencewith DNA techniques:DNA isolation and PCR.

RATE OF PAY

$20.38 hourly rate.