Lab Assistant 2 - 140644

The School of Biological Sciences is comprised of four academic departments (Cell and Developmental Biology, Ecology Behavior and Evolution, Molecular Biology, and Neurobiology) which reflect broad foci in faculty research and in the academic programs offered by the School. Each department is headed by a Chair who works individually to represent their department, and works collaboratively as a member of the School's Council of Chairs (COC) on those concerns which cross the boundaries of department governance. The School has 90+ faculty FTE and approximately 5000 undergraduate students in 8 majors, with annual enrollments of approximately 30,000.

This position involves supporting research in the lab investigating mechanisms of viral pathogenesis. Under close supervision of the primary investigator (PI), the incumbent will assist in conducting routine tissue culture work, molecular cloning, protein analysis assays like western blot and ELISA, expression/purification of viral proteins, and mouse husbandry including some in vivo experiments. Mouse work includes maintaining a mouse colony, crossing mice to make new genetic lines, genotyping mice, conducting viral infections, and conduct vascular leak assays. In addition, the successful candidate will assist in laboratory management work including preparation of reagents, maintaining lab equipment, making/maintaining an inventory of samples, ordering lab supplies, learning proper storage and disposal of biohazardous waste, and training of new lab members. The incumbent will also assist other lab members in experiments and perform other duties as needed.

• Graduation from high school or a GED and two years of laboratory experience OR two years of college including courses in the biological sciences; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience in the preparation of scientific reagents including common buffers and stock solutions.

• Knowledge and experience with basic laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, micro-pipettes, biosafety cabinets, incubators, autoclaves, balances, pH meters, and microscopes.

• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory techniques (pipetting, solution preparation, dosage calculation, etc.).

• Excellent interpersonal communication skills to interact well with others to facilitate communication about lab requirements including the ability to discuss and understand day-to-day laboratory affairs, research plans, results and ideas with PI and other lab personnel in a constructive, professional and pleasant manner.

• Excellent organizational skills including the ability to keep clear and accurate records, organize a varied workload, follow written and oral protocols and give oral presentations on the progress of research in lab meetings. Proven ability to prioritize and schedule experiments and duties to maximize efficiency.

• Proven ability to develop, follow and troubleshoot established lab protocols and lab procedures with direction from PI.

• Familiarity with Apple and PC computers and associated word processing and spreadsheet software with a willingness and ability to update and increase skills and knowledge as needed.

• Ability to make contributions to the preparation and editing of scientific papers, manuscripts, and lab data.

• Knowledge/understanding and at least some experience with Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication and Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Familiarity with a Chemical Hygiene Plan addressing safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, use of protective items. Willingness and ability to keep safety training current and consistent with research involvement.

• Enthusiasm for learning and a genuine interest in scientific research. Willingness and ability to learn new skills, research methods, and scientific principles.

• Willingness and demonstrated ability to embrace and consistently uphold the principles of community for a collaborative work environment.

• Ability to learn new experimental methods as required. Ability to work independently or collaboratively on a research project.

• Familiarity with basic and general techniques in cell biology and molecular biology, including knowledge of PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA cloning, and plasmid preps.

• Must be available to work variable schedules according to what is needed for experiments. This means that working evenings or weekends may be required on occasion.
• Willingness to work with viruses including dengue virus, Zika virus, Kunjin virus, a vaccine strain of yellow fever virus, norovirus, astrovirus, vesicular stomatitis virus, human coronaviruses, and replication incompetent lentiviruses.
• Willingness to work with mice.
• Willingness to work with human cell lines that may harbor human pathogens.
• Willingness to work with hazardous chemicals.

Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.