Research Assistant- IL- Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics

Provides research support to the research endeavors of the faculty of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics. Assists in the training of students, design and execution of research experiments, collection and analysis of data, generation of figures and presentations, and revising manuscripts. Reports to the Chair of the Department.

Responsibilities

• Performs standard research procedures in cell and molecular biology (western blot, RT-PCR, qPCR, chromatin immunoprecipitations, cell culture and harvesting of human cell lines, immunofluorescence (IF), RNA & DNA purification, molecular cloning, etc.) under supervision of principal investigators.
• Performs other duties that include working with laboratory animals.
• Assists in the development of new protocols.
• Provides direction and guidance to students conducting research in the labs.
• Assists PIs with trouble-shooting and problem-solving solutions to technical problems.
• Graphs and analyzes data.
• Performs literature searches for protocols and approaches.
• Keeps accurate lab notebooks for each lab where they work within the department.
• Responsible for maintaining cleanliness, repair, and organization of laboratories.
• Responsible for recordkeeping, maintenance, and disposal associated with lab equipment and chemicals.
• Adheres to laboratory safety procedures.
• Obtains quotes and performs ordering and receiving duties for lab supplies.
• Contributes to abstract submissions and poster and manuscript preparation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences related field with some relevant laboratory experience (0 - 2 years).
• Previous laboratory experience in molecular biology techniques including western blot, PCR, and cell culture is preferred.
• Must be able to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner and have regular, predictable, in-person attendance.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Skills

• Computer proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) required.
• Experience with Statistics, Graphing, and Imaging software is desirable.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, talk and hear.
• Occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, taste or smell.
• Frequently required to lift up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Close and distance vision correctable to 20/20 in both eyes, ability to distinguish depth and shades of grey scale.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Occasionally work near moving mechanical parts, exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electric shock, radiation, and vibration.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Life insurance, short/long term disability, and pet insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts including healthcare reimbursement and child/dependent care account.
• Competitive time off package including paid holidays, sick/flex days, personal days, and vacation days.
• 403(b) retirement plan.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Child care subsidy reimbursement program.
• Identity theft protection and employee assistance program.
• On-site wellness facility with a fully equipped fitness center.