Position Summary:The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is seeking a 100%time Research Assistant. This position requires collaborative work among two research laboratories with the shared mission to elucidate mechanisms and test potential treatments for inherited retinal disease. The person in this position is responsible for the generation and interpretation of experimental data using common molecular biology and genetic techniques as well as the use of model organisms. Intermittent assistance with training students and maintenance of laboratory equipment is also part of the responsibilities. Key to this position is the demonstrated ability to work independently in the design development optimization and carrying out of experimental procedures conduct data analysis and prepare data for publication.
Type of Position:Specified term. Initial appointment is for one year. Appointment may be extended based on performance and availability of funding.
Position Responsibilities:
Research
- Perform research activities based upon protocols developed by other research staff or principal investigators 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 investigators.
Experiments Investigations Evaluations
- Read understand and perform protocols.
- Arrange and plan daily activities to prepare for research protocols.
- Set up and operate research materials or equipment.
- Perform procedures assuring fidelity of protocols.
- Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines.
- Collect record and consolidate data as directed by the Principal Investigator.
- Track the progress of research activities.
- Adhere to Quality Assurance protocols to maintain the 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; and 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 abstracts text figures for publications.
- May present research results at lab meetings and departmental retreats.
Administrative and Project Management
- Assist with IRB ACURF or similar protocol submissions when 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
Supervision/Staffing
- As skills are mastered may train provide direction assignments feedback and advice to students and newer employees.
Department Summary:
For additional information about the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Iowa please visit our website at: Requirements
- Bachelors degree in biochemistry biology or related area.
Experience Requirements
- Experience in generation and manipulation of recombinant DNA
- Experience in histological preparation of tissue
- Experience in protein isolation and western analysis
- Experience maintaining and working with mammalian cultured cells
- Experience maintaining and working with fruit fly cultures and mouse colonies
- Experience in written and oral data presentation
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Desired Qualifications
- Knowledge of the fundamental principles of biochemistry molecular biology and genetics
- Experience performing behavior assays using mice
- Experience performing electrical recordings on mice
- Experience culturing and performing genetics using Drosophila (fruit flies)
- Experience manipulating and quantifying gene and protein expression in cell culture systems
- Ability to provide technical instruction and mentorship to laboratory members of the team
- Ability to work independently
Application Process: To be considered applicants must upload a CV or resume and cover letter (under submission required materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days. Successful candidates will be required to selfdisclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background/education verification. Up to 3 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. Please contact with any questions regarding the application process.
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