Assist Research Specialist

The Morgridge Institute for Research•Madison, WI

23d•Onsite

About The Position

The Poss group utilize zebrafish, and, occasionally, mice as model systems to study regeneration of tissues like heart muscle, kidney, spinal cord, and appendages. The primary focus of this position is regeneration research with duties involving (but not limited to) molecular biology, histology, surgeries, microinjection, and imaging and analysis, with opportunities for co-authorships on published manuscripts. There also will be some animal husbandry and general lab responsibilities. Training will be provided by the laboratory. We welcome ambitious applicants with enthusiasm for regenerative biology and for working with research zebrafish.

Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each primary duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary duties.
Minimum Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, or other directly related scientific field
2 years or more of post-bachelor experience in a laboratory research setting is strongly preferred
Strong background in biology or engineering
Training in zebrafish work, molecular biology, and imaging will be provided
Must have the ability to work both independently and part of a dynamic research team
Strong written and oral communication skills are essential
Must have strong organization skills and attention to detail
Standing for long periods of time is required
Work is normally performed in a wet laboratory environment
No or very limited physical effort is required
No or very limited exposure to physical risk
Occasional evening and weekend work

Responsibilities

Performing molecular biology, including making DNA constructs
Generating mutant or transgenic zebrafish by microinjection
Breeding, some husbandry, and genotyping of zebrafish
Preparing chemicals, reagents, and solutions for general laboratory use
Operating laboratory equipment required for specific assays
Reviewing laboratory methods manuals, scientific journals, abstracts, and other literature for information applicable to research experiments
Assisting in training new personnel
Obtain, prepare, mount, and stain tissue for microscopic examination.
Data collection and imaging from experimental samples
Compiling, analyzing, and documenting results from experimental data, and drawing conclusions from experimental results
Additional miscellaneous duties as required