| POSITION SUMMARY We are seeking a creative and motivated Research Assistant with strong experimental skills to support the development of novel cell therapy-based approaches for type 1 diabetes (Nature, 586: 606-11, 2020). The role will focus on differentiation of iPSC/ESC to functionally active organoids, help streamline and establish a robust process and aid in the translation of this work to external partners. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (45%) Stem Cell Work - Maintenance and differentiation of iPSC/ESC to functionally active organoids
- Preparation / maintenance of cell culture media, growth factors and reagents for stem cell work.
- Growing, passaging, and maintenance of organoid cultures.
- Viability assay for organoids.
- Harvesting and isolation of organoid cells for FACS sorter.
(25%) Molecular and Cellular Biology, and Biochemistry Techniques - Plasmid DNA ( Maxi and mini) and RNA preparation from tissues and cells
- Gel Electrophoresis ( DNA, RNA, Protein ( SDS-page, Western Blotting)
- Molecular cloning
- Analysis of DNA/ RNA quality using Agilent BioAnalyzer
- PCR/ qPCR in 384 -well format
- cDNA synthesis from RNA
(20%) Mouse Colony Handling and Maintenance - Mouse husbandry/ feeding with special diet/ weaning, mating, breeding
- Weighing/ Euthanizing / Mouse survival surgery
- Dissection ad harvesting of mouse tissues
- Tail clipping/ ear punching
- Genotyping
(10%) Lab Support - Assist with preparing standard/general tock solutions.
- Assist with weekly inventory and ordering of general lab supplies.
- Assist with receipt and organization of incoming lab supplies.
- Assist in disposal of hazardous, biohazard waste and chemical waste
EXPERIENCE Required: - No professional experience required.
- Demonstrated experience and application of molecular biology knowledge preferably in biochemistry and cell culture.
- Demonstrated experience with general lab maintenance, including cleaning, stocking supply inventory, and ensuring the maintenance of a sterile environment.
Preferred: - Familiarity with molecular biology techniques
EDUCATION Required: - Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, biochemistry or related field
Preferred: - MS in Biology or related field
SKILLS AND ABILITIES Required: - Theoretical and hands on knowledge of tissue culture and molecular biology techniques.
- Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions.
- Ability to learn and carry out new experimental procedures with accuracy and efficiency. Demonstrated ability to follow verbal and/or written protocols, including follow-up on previously begun procedures.
- Demonstrated ability to record data accurately and enter into appropriate medium.
- Skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
- Demonstrated knowledge and experience with both PC and MAC operating systems, standard business office equipment and commonly used software and tools, such as Microsoft Office, electronic mail, and the internet.
- Proficiency with common office software applications as well as software applications used for research, recording, and analysis.
Preferred: - Detail oriented with ability to understand and follow standard procedures
- Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT - Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
- Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs.
- Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
- Must be willing to sign confidentiality agreement
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, hearing, keying, seeing, sitting, talking, analyzing, calculating, communicating, reading, reasoning, and writing. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c) |
