Description
Position Objective
Working under general supervision, the Research Assistant 2 will plan and carry out research study activities in accordance with general plans of the department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology. This position will be responsible for conducting basic research aimed at studying the life cycle of a bacteriophage (bacterial virus) that infects Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which was recently supported by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The research assistant will help plan and independently carry out work, with an emphasis on microbiological, genetic, molecular biological, and microscopy techniques.
Essential Functions
Plan and carry out microbiological, genetic, molecular biological, and microscopy experiments aimed at understanding susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to phage. (40%)
Conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. Conduct research using molecular biological and genetic techniques to study virulence mechanisms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. (10%)
Perform microbiological culture techniques, manipulation of DNA (PCR, cloning), protein gels and western blot analysis. May assist in developing improved techniques, project methods or procedures, such as new recombination-based techniques for generating gene fusions in vivo. (25%)
Collect, analyze and format data for presentation, such as bacterial survival numbers in an infection model, cell type and count in infected corneas, cytokine levels. (10%)
Oversee inventory. Order and maintain lab stocks of media and buffers (10%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
May be involved in familiarizing new members of the laboratory with common laboratory practices and techniques. Train new staff; direct the work of students. (5%)
Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)
CONTACTS
Department: Daily contact with supervisor to discuss experiments, results, ordering and other lab-related topics. Daily contact with other members of the laboratory and the department, to facilitate the exchange of ideas, techniques etc.
University: Frequent contact outside of the department includes work in the laboratory of our collaborators in the Visual Sciences Research Center as well as other core facilities, as necessary to achieve a given research objective. Frequent contact with administrative departments, such as the Department of Occupational and Environmental Safety (DOES), to update chemical hygiene and bloodborne pathogen plans.
External: Limited contact with vendors to exchange information, ordering, pricing and technical information on products. Contact with high school student interns to mentor them when in the lab.
Students: Frequent contact with graduate students and undergraduate students to train them, assist with research and assist with obtaining needed supplies.
Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. Train new staff; direct the work of students.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree and 1 to 3 years of related experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience required.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Knowledge of basic microbiological culture techniques, as well as have experience working with DNA (PCR, cloning) are essential. Familiarity with fluorescence microscopy techniques is a plus.
Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer-related skills as required by the project.
Excellent communication and organization skills. Ability to follow protocols and work under general supervision as well as the ability to multitask and manage time efficiently. Curiosity, interest in the field, as well as a willingness to learn, are of particular importance.
Ability to rely on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
Ability to operate laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, spectrophotometer, pH meter.
Demonstrated history of successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
Ability to meet consistent attendance.
Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
Working Conditions
General laboratory environment in the department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology. May have exposure to hazards in the form of general chemicals, paraformaldehyde, phenol, chloroform, methanol, ethidium bromide, radioactivity, ultraviolet light and sonication. The work involves work with syringes and handling of BSL2 pathogens, mostly Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards.
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree and 1 to 3 years of related experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience required.
