Summary

This Research Assistant I (RA-I) position in a growing lab will primarily entail assisting with the planning and execution of research experiments. The Research Assistant will have direct interactions with the Principal Investigator and have ample opportunity for learning and growth. Responsibilities are mainly focused on generating experimental data. Related example responsibilities may include but are not limited to presenting lab meetings at regular intervals, conducting experiments focused on the development of genetically modified extracellular vesicles as a potential therapy for central nervous system injury, managing mouse colonies, ordering supplies, and interacting with other labs and core facilities.

This RA-I role is in a small lab that is still in the process of recruiting scientists and so will require diverse responsibilities. Thus, the most important characteristic is the ability and willingness to learn new skills. The primary responsibility of the job will be to regularly generate experimental data. The candidate must also have a high degree of resourcefulness and ability to take initiative. Furthermore, the successful candidate will exhibit strong interpersonal skills as they will have extensive interactions with vendors, core facilities, other labs, and members of the growing lab.

Job Duties

• Conducts laboratory experiments with the appropriate degree of graded responsibility under the supervision of the PI. 
• Experiments in the laboratory may include but are not limited to production and isolation of extracellular vesicles, immunohistochemistry, western blotting, tissue imaging, and mouse surgeries. 
• Performs animal colony maintenance and husbandry, including genotyping or postoperative care when needed. 
• Conducts literature searches and summaries to aid in planning of laboratory experiments. 
• Interacts with core facilities for processing of tissue or other experimental samples. 
• Performs administrative tasks as needed.  
• Collects, analyzes, and summarizes experimental data into graphs and presentation format and assist with publications. 
• Assists with finding and ordering equipment that is best suited for conducting the proposed research.  
• Participates in lab maintenance activities including keeping a clean and organized laboratory environment. 
• Documents experiments in laboratory notebooks accurately that would allow others to successfully replicate experiments.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a Basic Science or a related field.
• Two years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in basic science or a related field.
• Candidate must have generic laboratory skills, will ideally have experience with tissue culture, and be comfortable handling and working with mice.
• Preferred laboratory skills: tissue culture, immunohistochemistry, western blotting, animal colony handling and maintenance, drafting figures and manuscripts.