Senior Research Assistant

Systems Biology is an interdisciplinary department pushing the boundaries of cancer research by integrating technology development, bioengineering, data science, and systems biology.

About the role

The primary purpose of this position is to test new commercial technologies for single cell and spatial genomics assays for release as a core service, as well as assisting in the rollout of new assays. This includes training other core personnel, creating SOPs, defining standardized QC, and benchmarking assays. The secondary purpose is performing spatial genomics experiments for customers and maintaining the core’s laboratory equipment.

The Senior Research Assistant applies technical expertise in spatial genomics, histopathology, and mammalian sample processing to support the development, evaluation, and implementation of advanced molecular assays. This primarily wet-laboratory role is responsible for performing spatial genomic experiments, benchmarking commercial assays across various sample types and quality levels, and transitioning validated in-house laboratory assays into core services. The position also supports assay implementation, sample handling workflows, and efficient processing of customer samples, with some responsibilities involving data transfer and management.

Responsibilities

Core Facility Duties

• Perform spatial genomics experiments including Visium HD, Xenium, and related assays
• Provide core laboratory services requested by users
• Conduct PCR, qPCR, DNA isolation, RNA isolation, and quality control procedures
• Perform tissue sectioning and tissue staining using H&E methodologies
• Prepare libraries for next-generation sequencing workflows
• Prepare slides for spatial transcriptomics assays
• Interface with core service and data analysis teams regarding protocols, experimental challenges, and sample quality control requirements

Assay Development & Benchmarking

• Test and evaluate new commercial technologies for single-cell and spatial genomics applications
• Benchmark commercial assays across samples of varying quality and tissue types
• Assess potential assays for release as core services
• Assist with implementation and rollout of new assays
• Define standardized quality control metrics and benchmarking procedures
• Transition in-house laboratory assays into core service offerings

Record Keeping & Data Management

• Maintain records of core samples, received data, generated data, and storage locations
• Record and evaluate experimental data according to established methods
• Maintain clear and systematic benchmarking records for assays and equipment
• Support data transfer and data management activities associated with core operations
• Generate standard operating procedures prior to protocol release
• Train laboratory personnel on new protocols and workflows

Laboratory Operations & Equipment

• Assist with overall organization and operation of the core facility
• Maintain laboratory equipment used in genomics and spatial biology workflows
• Construct, assemble, and operate laboratory apparatus and equipment
• Prepare reports supporting core operations as needed
• Maintain laboratory safety standards and practices
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

Education

• Required: Bachelor's Degree in Natural Sciences or a related field
• Preferred: Master's Degree in Basic Sciences and a Medical Degree

Work Experience

• Required: Three years of scientific or experimental research work experience or one year of required experience with a preferred degree
• Preferred: Prior experience working in a molecular biology research laboratory with expertise in tissue processing, imaging, and/or next-generation sequencing (NGS) methodologies. Experience with histopathology, genomics, transcriptomics, or high-resolution imaging is highly preferred.

Pay

Minimum $24.76/hour - Midpoint $31.01/hour - Maximum $37.26/hour

Schedule

Full-time, onsite. Work week: Days.

Benefits

• Employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for employees working 30+ hours/week
• Optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance
• Paid time off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank accruals
• Paid holidays, wellness, childcare, and other leave options
• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service
• Access to extensive wellness, fitness, and employee resource groups
• Defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System
• Voluntary retirement plans
• Employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs