Research Assistant - Rheumatology

About the role

We are building an immune receptor sequencing pipeline for autoimmune research, and we are looking for a hands-on researcher to run the assay at the bench.

Responsibilities

• Conducts research experiments and assays.
• Processes incoming samples, from cryopreserved PBMCs or sorted T cells to sequencing-ready paired TCR/BCR libraries, following established protocols.
• Runs library prep on the liquid handler. Operates the instrument for multiwell library prep and performs routine troubleshooting; escalates to senior staff when results suggest a protocol or method change is needed.
• Runs library QC and support sequencing submission. Performs primary QC on libraries and helps prepare and submit samples to the sequencing core.
• Maintains accurate records. Keeps plate maps, sample sheets, and metadata up to date so wet-lab output links cleanly to downstream analysis.
• Enters sample information accurately into provided templates and tracking sheets.
• Maintains reagent inventory, flags low supplies, and assists with instrument maintenance and calibration schedules.
• Evaluates research results, reports findings and discusses project outcomes with staff involved.
• Performs data entry and maintains data files on research.
• Collaborates with research studies, experiments, preparation of material, and documentation.

Requirements

Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.
• Comfortable with standard molecular biology techniques such as RNA extraction, reverse transcription, and PCR.
• Understands basic good-practice in RNA work, including avoiding degradation and contamination.
• Careful, methodical work: Tracks plate maps, barcodes, and sample IDs without errors. Follows written protocols closely and keeps accurate records.
• Maintains a clear electronic lab notebook, recording reagent lots and instrument settings so a run can be reproduced later.
• Prior NGS or library prep experience: Exposure to Illumina library prep, Qubit, and Bioanalyzer or TapeStation is a plus, but you will be trained on the specific workflow.
• Liquid handler exposure: Any experience with automated or non-contact dispensers (such as the Dispendix I.DOT) is welcome. Prior experience is not required, we will train you on the instrument.
• T/B cell handling: Experience with PBMC processing, sorting, or magnetic enrichment.
• Experience with patient-derived samples: Familiarity with clinical samples and the chain-of-custody and consent requirements associated with them.

Skills

Not Applicable

Benefits

• Personal: Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
• Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.
• Wellness: Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!
• Family: We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs.
• For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/