Research Assistant Biochemistry Hodges
Research Assistant Biochemistry Hodges
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Job Description
The Hodges lab is seeking a Research Assistant to participate in a variety of research projects in the area of human epigenomics. Our lab employs state of the art functional genomic techniques including largescale DNA sequencing to study epigenome dynamics in development and disease.
About the Work Unit:
The epigenome consists of multiple layers that are biochemically modified to affect how genes are regulated. We use cuttingedge DNA sequencing technologies including ATACseq methylome sequencing Cut&Run among others to map and quantify these epigenetic features throughout the human genome. Using these technologies we are able to discover previously unknown gene regulatory elements and examine the epigenetic mechanisms that control them.
Research in the Hodges lab consists of four major areas that aim to understand the interplay between gene regulatory DNA sequences and epigenetic mechanisms that control gene expression in normal and disease states. Projects in the lab are focused on 1 understanding the mechanistic role of DNA methylation in the cell type specific regulation of gene enhancers and promoters 2 using comparative DNA methylation profiling to define celltype essential gene enhancers and trace cell developmental histories 3 dissecting the relationship between enhancer DNA sequences and epigenetics in human patient data and 4 comparing this relationship across species. Ultimately our longterm mission is to understand how gene regulatory differences at both DNA sequence and epigenetic levels give rise to trait diversity and disease susceptibility.
Members of the laboratory are based in recentlyrenovated space and will work in a collaborative and interactive community space shared by other biochemistry laboratories.The Research Assistant will be a part of the Department of Biochemistry in the School of Medicine at Vanderbilt University and a key laboratory member responsible for duties necessary for maintaining efficient laboratory function such as preparing stocks organizing lab supplies and assisting with various research projects.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:
Primary Responsibilities include:
- Assistance with general laboratory operation including maintenance of laboratory reagents and stock solutions placing orders and maintaining lab inventories as well as compliance with Biosafety protocols 50.
- Providing support for specified research projects including data collection analysis and communication of results 50. Lab skills will include:
- Molecular Biology techniques including DNA subcloning nucleic acid purification RTPCR quantitative PCR and production of next generation sequencing libraries.
- Cell culture maintenance including embryonic stem cell culture.
- In vitro cell differentiation
- Other tasks related to science communication
- Attendance at regular meetings with Principal Investigator to discuss laboratory tasks and data
- Attendance and participation in regular group laboratory meetings
- Proficiency and accuracy in maintaining lab notebook and documentation
- Assisting Principal Investigator in training other researchers in lab procedures and protocols
Supervisory Relationships:
This position does not have any supervisory responsibilities.
Education and Certifications:
- Academic degree (Bachelors) in Biology Chemistry or related scientific discipline is required.
- Relevant experience in Molecular Biology laboratory techniques and fundamental understanding of chemical principles is strongly preferred.
- Ability to adhere to scientific integrity standards in data collection and reporting is necessary.
- Abilitytounderstand andfollow scientificresearchprotocolsandproceduresis stronglypreferred.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work collaborativelyis strongly preferred.
- Skill in organizing resources and establishing prioritiesis strongly preferred.
Employment Type
Full-Time
