Senior Research Assistant - Molecular Biology

The Allen Discovery Center is dedicated to the advancement of basic biology and biomedicine, using an integrated approach to control biological structure and function. Through molecular genetics, biophysics, and computational methods, researchers work toward multi-level control of patterning, developing novel technology to modulate bioelectric communication among cells. Applications include repair of birth defects, regenerative medicine, cancer reprogramming, and synthetic biology.

About the role

This is a one-year limited term position subject to renewal based on performance and continued funding. It is grant funded and not eligible for severance pay. The Senior Research Assistant supports research activities within the Levin Lab by independently conducting specialized laboratory experiments and procedures in support of funded research projects.

Responsibilities

• Conduct specialized laboratory experiments using advanced molecular biology and cell culture techniques, including preparation of molarity-based solutions, tissue and cell culture, western blotting, plasmid preparation, restriction enzyme digests, RNA and protein preparation, flow cytometry, staining procedures, and microscopy-based imaging.
• Develop and optimize research techniques and protocols in collaboration with the Principal Investigator and senior scientific staff.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, maintain accurate laboratory records, and assist in preparing publications, presentations, and research reports.
• Contribute to research study design and suggest modifications to experiments and protocols as needed.
• Oversee collection, data entry, and analysis of experimental results.
• Provide training and guidance to junior laboratory personnel and students.
• Support day-to-day laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, inventory management, and compliance with laboratory safety requirements.

Requirements

• Master’s degree.
• 5 years of progressively responsible experience in a related field of research.
• Experience managing and directing basic sciences research studies and laboratory operations.
• Strong organizational, communication, and data management skills.
• Proficiency in preparing molarity solutions, cell culture, western blotting, microscopy, imaging, plasmid preparation, restriction digests, vector design, RNA and protein preparation, tissue culture, staining, and flow cytometry.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3D cell culture experience.
• Proficiency in Imaris or CellProfiler.
• Experience with R or Python.
• GraphPad Prism proficiency.
• Electrophysiology knowledge or patch clamp experience (highly desirable).
• Mouse colony experience.

Pay

Pay range: minimum $67,200.00, midpoint $83,900.00, maximum $100,700.00. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity; new hires can generally expect pay between the minimum and midpoint of the range.