Lab Assistant 2 - 140644

About the role

This position involves supporting research in the lab investigating mechanisms of viral pathogenesis. Under close supervision of the primary investigator (PI), the incumbent will assist in conducting routine tissue culture work, molecular cloning, protein analysis assays like western blot and ELISA, expression/purification of viral proteins, and mouse husbandry including some in vivo experiments.

Responsibilities

• Supports research in the lab investigating mechanisms of viral pathogenesis.
• Assists in conducting routine tissue culture work, molecular cloning, protein analysis assays like western blot and ELISA, expression/purification of viral proteins.
• Assists in mouse husbandry including maintaining a mouse colony, crossing mice to make new genetic lines, genotyping mice, conducting viral infections, and conduct vascular leak assays.
• Assists in laboratory management work including preparation of reagents, maintaining lab equipment, making/maintaining an inventory of samples, ordering lab supplies, learning proper storage and disposal of biohazardous waste, and training of new lab members.
• Affixes to other lab members in experiments and performs other duties as needed.

Requirements

• Graduation from high school or a GED and two years of laboratory experience OR two years of college including courses in the biological sciences; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in the preparation of scientific reagents including common buffers and stock solutions.
• Knowledge and experience with basic laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, micro-pipettes, biosafety cabinets, incubators, autoclaves, balances, pH meters, and microscopes.
• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory techniques (pipetting, solution preparation, dosage calculation, etc.).
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills to interact well with others to facilitate communication about lab requirements including the ability to discuss and understand day-to-day laboratory affairs, research plans, results and ideas with PI and other lab personnel in a constructive, professional and pleasant manner.
• Excellent organizational skills including the ability to keep clear and accurate records, organize a varied workload, follow written and oral protocols and give oral presentations on the progress of research in lab meetings.
• Prioritize and schedule experiments and duties to maximize efficiency.
• Develop, follow and troubleshoot established lab protocols and lab procedures with direction from PI.
• Familiarity with Apple and PC computers and associated word processing and spreadsheet software with a willingness and ability to update and increase skills and knowledge as needed.
• Ability to make contributions to the preparation and editing of scientific papers, manuscripts, and lab data.
• Knowledge/understanding and at least some experience with Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication and Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Familiarity with a Chemical Hygiene Plan addressing safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, use of protective items.
• Willingness and ability to keep safety training current and consistent with research involvement.
• Enthusiasm for learning and a genuine interest in scientific research. Willingness and ability to learn new skills, research methods, and scientific principles.
• Willingness and demonstrated ability to embrace and consistently uphold the principles of community for a collaborative work environment.
• Ability to learn new experimental methods as required.
• Ability to work independently or collaboratively on a research project.
• Familiarity with basic and general techniques in cell biology and molecular biology, including knowledge of PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA cloning, and plasmid preps.

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or a GED and two years of laboratory experience OR two years of college including courses in the biological sciences; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in the preparation of scientific reagents including common buffers and stock solutions.
• Knowledge and experience with basic laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, micro-pipettes, biosafety cabinets, incubators, autoclaves, balances, pH meters, and microscopes.
• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory techniques (pipetting, solution preparation, dosage calculation, etc.).
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills to interact well with others to facilitate communication about lab requirements including the ability to discuss and understand day-to-day laboratory affairs, research plans, results and ideas with PI and other lab personnel in a constructive, professional and pleasant manner.
• Excellent organizational skills including the ability to keep clear and accurate records, organize a varied workload, follow written and oral protocols and give oral presentations on the progress of research in lab meetings.
• Prioritize and schedule experiments and duties to maximize efficiency.
• Develop, follow and troubleshoot established lab protocols and lab procedures with direction from PI.
• Familiarity with Apple and PC computers and associated word processing and spreadsheet software with a willingness and ability to update and increase skills and knowledge as needed.
• Ability to make contributions to the preparation and editing of scientific papers, manuscripts, and lab data.
• Knowledge/understanding and at least some experience with Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication and Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Familiarity with a Chemical Hygiene Plan addressing safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, use of protective items.
• Willingness and ability to keep safety training current and consistent with research involvement.
• Enthusiasm for learning and a genuine interest in scientific research. Willingness and ability to learn new skills, research methods, and scientific principles.
• Willingness and demonstrated ability to embrace and consistently uphold the principles of community for a collaborative work environment.
• Ability to learn new experimental methods as required.
• Ability to work independently or collaboratively on a research project.
• Familiarity with basic and general techniques in cell biology and molecular biology, including knowledge of PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA cloning, and plasmid preps.

Skills

• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to prioritize and schedule experiments and duties to maximize efficiency.
• Knowledge of laboratory techniques.
• Familiarity with Apple and PC computers.
• Ability to make contributions to the preparation and editing of scientific papers, manuscripts, and lab data.
• Knowledge of Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication, and Injury and Illness Prevention Program.
• Ability to learn new experimental methods as required.
• Ability to work independently or collaboratively on a research project.
• Familiarity with basic and general techniques in cell biology and molecular biology.

Benefits

The position offers a competitive compensation package including a starting salary range of $27.54 - $33.13 per hour, with potential for extension based on performance and departmental needs. The position is a 100% Limited appointment for 18 months, with the possibility of extension or conversion to career status. The position is full-time (100%), with a work schedule of 8 hours per day, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with occasional overtime as needed.

Pay

Annual Full Pay Range: $57,504 - $69,175 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%). Hourly Equivalent: $27.54 - $33.13

Schedule

Days, 8 hrs/day, Mon-Fri 8-4:30p, occasional overtime as needed.