Lab Assistant

About the role

Performs research laboratory techniques in molecular and cell biology, drug efficacy testing, cancer biology, epigenomics using mammalian cell culture and mouse model systems under the supervision of the principal investigator.

Responsibilities

• Performs specialized experiments using mammalian cells and the mouse model using techniques related to cell and molecular biology, cancer biology and therapeutics (45%)
• Assists the Principal Investigators in implementation and performance of protocols and procedures as well as the modification of existing techniques (35%)
• Makes statistical calculations, analyzes data and prepares reports summarizing research results (15%)
• Operates specialized laboratory instruments and equipment; instructs others in their use (5%)
• Maintains accurate and detailed experimental records (5%)
• May train other laboratory personnel (5%)

Work Environment

• Nearly Continuously: Office environment
• Often: Infectious disease, oils (air or skin exposure to oils or other cutting fluids), hazards (proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, or exposure to chemicals)
• Seldom: Exposure to animals

Physical Requirements

• Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking
• Often: Repetitive hand motion (e.g., typing), walking, standing, sitting
• Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead

Minimum Qualifications

• One year full-time laboratory experience or equivalency required (one year full-time lab equivalency equals successful completion of two semesters college laboratory course work)
• Knowledge of laboratory techniques, equipment and terminology
• Knowledge of chemical and physical properties of materials or substances and appropriate specimen handling techniques
• Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills
• OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the certification may be required by some departments
• Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job

Preferences

• Bachelor or Master's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology or other equivalent scientific disciplines
• Previous laboratory experience in molecular biology and mammalian tissue culture
• Demonstrated team orientation, strong organizational skills and effective communication skills
• Highly motivated toward discovery and application of findings to human health
• Working knowledge of basic statistical calculations and software
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job
• Previous experience in laboratory research
• Experience in molecular biology, cell biology and biochemistry techniques
• Hard work and innovative discoveries as core values
• Highly motivated, intrinsically curious, detail-oriented, reliable and flexible individual
• Those intending to pursue graduate or medical school after a 2-year period and requiring laboratory experience and publication record are strongly encouraged to apply

This position does not involve processing and testing clinical samples for diseases.