Research Assistant II position will focus on cell and molecular biology of cultured cells and organoids. A successful candidate will work half of their time on independent projects and the other half on supporting postdoctoral researchers in the lab. The position will be responsible for establishing and utilizing cell-based assays for evaluating the function of candidate genes, pharmacological agents, or secreted molecules and performing molecular biological experiments to characterize the mode of action. Position will be trained in specific techniques and methods in order to execute experiments that are broadly designed by post doc or PI and must be able to carry out and analyze experimental results independently. The overall goal of the research is to understand the molecular and biochemical function of circadian clock components and interacting genes.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

(50%) Tissue Culture

• Independently maintains cultures of human and mouse cells as well as manages and differentiates cell lines.
• Set up and optimize cell-based assays in 96- nd 384 well plates and carry out functional genomics or compound screens.
• Follow up on mode of action of compounds or genes by additional imaging and functional assays on cells.

(25%) Molecular Biology Techniques

• Perform various techniques in molecular biology such as: RNA extraction and analysis.
• Protein extraction and analysis.
• PCR and rtPCR.
• RNA-seq library preps.
• Gel Electrophoresis.
• Recombinant DNA techniques.

(10%) Histology

• Perform various immunofluorescence or FISH protocols on fixed cells.
• Analyze cells using various fluorescent and confocal microscopes for high power imaging.

(15%) Lab Support

• Performs quality control of reagents as needed.
• Trains and assists other lab personnel on research techniques and use of laboratory equipment.
• Attends staff meetings and assist with general problem solving.
• Assists in Hazardous, Biohazardous and waste disposal.
• Assists with maintaining laboratory safety records.
• Maintains laboratory supplies and equipment.

EXPERIENCE

Required

• Minimum 2 years’ experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred

• Minimum 4 years’ experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

EDUCATION

Required

• Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or related field or equivalent

Preferred

• Master’s degree in biological sciences or related field.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Required

• Theoretical and hands-on knowledge of cell culture, high throughput assays, histology and molecular biology techniques.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions.
• Ability to manage and track large numbers of samples meticulously without mixup or cross contamination.
• Skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with both PC and MAC operating systems, standard business office equipment and commonly used software and tools, such as Microsoft Office, electronic mail, and the internet.
• Proficiency with common office software applications as well as software applications used for research, recording, and analysis.
• Highly organized, effective at multitasking, adept at juggling changing priorities and able to prioritize.
• Proven ability to work both independently and also as part of a collaborative team.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility.
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with diverse groups. Demonstrated skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with personnel at all levels.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
• Must be willing to work with human cells and complete all appropriate associated training.
• Must be willing to work independently and must have a flexible schedule to support research needs.
• Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
• Must be willing to sign a confidentiality agreement.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/MENTAL ACTIVITIES/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

This position requires constant adjusting focus, seeing, sitting, and working inside. 

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)