Research Scientist / Engineer 1

About the role

The Department of Neurology has an outstanding opportunity for a 1.0 FTE Research Scientist/Engineer 1 in the Neuroinflammation laboratory of Drs. Suman Jayadev and Katherine Prater. We are seeking a motivated individual to further the investigation of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative syndromes using patient derived biospecimens and human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). We are a highly collaborative basic science team identifying cell-type specific mechanisms of neurodegeneration.

Responsibilities

• Research Activities (70%)
  • Maintain cultures of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)
  • Perform differentiation of iPSC into neural cells
  • Perform protein analysis such as Western blot analysis, ELISA
  • Perform cell function assays such as phagocytosis, neurotoxicity, cytokine production assays
  • Immunostain paraffin embedded and frozen tissue sections
  • Perform fluorescent in situ hybridization studies
  • Collect and analyze of microscopy images (fluorescence and confocal imaging)
  • Perform molecular biology techniques including subcloning, DNA preparation, RNA isolation, real-time quantitative PCR
  • Isolate cells/nuclei from brain tissue
  • Perform fluorescence-activated cell/nuclei sorting (FACS/FANS)
  • Auxiliary data analysis and figure preparation
• Training (20%)
  • Provide an overview of the current research projects, objectives, and the specific role of the new personnel within these projects
  • Mentor and train undergraduate research assistants or new lab personnel in laboratory techniques, safety protocols, and experimental procedures
  • Guide and support to ensure successful onboarding and skill development including lab safety, proper use of PPE, emergency procedures and safe handling of chemicals and biological materials
  • Train new personnel on the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for various experiments and lab tasks, ensuring they understand and can execute these procedures accurately
  • Oversee initial experimental tasks performed by new personnel, providing immediate feedback and troubleshooting support to ensure accurate and reliable results
• General Laboratory Activities (10%)
  • Aid in maintaining a clean and organized laboratory environment
  • Ensure that all work areas, equipment, and supplies are properly cleaned and stored
  • Maintain and update the SOPs, chemical hygiene plan, biological use application, and other regulatory elements needed for lab operation
  • Interface with laboratory inspectors and confirm that all lab operations and operators are compliant

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biopsychology, Molecular Biology, Neurosciences, or related field and one year of relevant experience
• Ability to perform cell culture
• Ability to perform immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization
• Good organizational skills and ability to take on responsibility
• Ability to work independently and cooperatively with others including post-docs, students, and staff
• Dedication to maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment
• Strong communication skills