Research Assistant I (Kettenbach Lab).

About the role

Seeking a Research Assistant I to support the laboratory of Dr. Arminja Kettenbach (Professor, Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology and Dartmouth Cancer Center). The Kettenbach lab focuses on the role that Phosphoprotein Phosphatases play in maintaining cellular homeostasis and how these processes go awry in diseases such as cancer. Furthermore, the lab uses and develops mass spectrometry‑based proteomics and phosphoproteomics approaches. This position is funded by a grant; continuation is based upon available funds. The role is based onsite in Lebanon, NH, full‑time (40 hours per week, 12 months per year).

Responsibilities

• Experiments: Conducts experiments by applying established methods and procedures; sets up and assists with research protocols under guidance; may have primary responsibility for independently setting up, performing, and troubleshooting less complex experiments; observes results, maintains written records, anticipates unexpected findings, assists in troubleshooting, reconciles disparate results, re‑runs techniques as needed, reports results to PI and senior personnel, assists in analysis, collaborates on technique modifications, documents new techniques, adheres to laboratory safety requirements including hazardous waste disposal.
• Records: Collects and analyzes data from experimentation; summarizes results and prepares progress reports for oral presentation at lab meetings; prepares understandable data representations (graphs, charts, tables, statistical summaries); contributes to scientific manuscripts by drafting text, preparing figures, etc.; conducts literature searches to assist in establishing new laboratory techniques.
• Laboratory: Performs day‑to‑day care and housekeeping; assesses need for and orders supplies and reagents; assists in maintenance of equipment and safety records, preparation of routine reagents; monitors equipment performance and arranges maintenance/repair; maintains computerized records; instructs others in laboratory methods and provides technical guidance.
• Miscellaneous: May assist in maintaining transgenic mouse colonies (weighing animals, setting up mating pairs, entering data); may assist in surgical procedures.
• Demonstrates professionalism and collegiality; performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree with a major in one of the Biological Sciences or equivalent.
• Experience: Two years of relevant laboratory/research experience (or Bachelor’s plus 2‑3 years' experience or equivalent combination).

Skills

• Competence in several laboratory methods, procedures, techniques, and equipment/instruments.
• Ability to work independently, apply critical thinking and sound judgment.
• Good organizational and time‑management skills.
• Willingness to work with/be exposed to hazardous materials (radioactive, infectious, hazardous chemicals).
• Knowledge of computers and software applications.
• Knowledge of standard computer software packages for data analysis and presentation, and online literature search engines.

Pay

Hiring range: $20.00 – $23.00 per hour.

Schedule

Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm with flexibility for occasional evenings or weekends as driven by research needs; 40 hours per week, 12 months per year.