Assistant Research Technician
About The Position
Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson's, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators. Van Andel Institute’s (VAI) Professor Scott Rothbart, Ph.D. is hiring an Assistant Research Technician. Our lab explores how the molecular mechanisms governing chromatin and genome function shape human health and disease, with a particular focus on uncovering new insights into cancer. The lab is an interdisciplinary team developing new and innovative in vitro systems, “omic” technologies and computational approaches to answer key questions. Dr. Rothbart is an experienced investigator and mentor who is dedicated to the education and training of scientists to prepare them to become leaders in the biomedical science community. Dr. Rothbart is a project leader on an NCI SPORE grant for Epigenetic Therapies and a basic science investigator on the Van Andel Institute-Stand Up to Cancer Epigenetics Dream Team. Major goals of these programs are to translate laboratory discoveries into clinical trials for cancer management. The Rothbart Lab operates within the VAI Department of Epigenetics, which includes a world-class group of highly collaborative scientists seeking to understand roles for epigenetic mechanisms in development and disease. This is a hands-on, early-career research position. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop technical expertise while contributing to active cancer and epigenetics research programs in a collaborative laboratory environment.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree or higher degree in a biological science and a good understanding of cellular & molecular biology.
- At least one (1) year of wet lab bench experience is preferred
Nice To Haves
- Experience and/or interest in working with mice
- Experience with mammalian cell culture
- Experience with molecular biology, including PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, bacterial transformation, DNA/RNA/protein extraction, lenti- and retro-virus production, CRISPR
- Experience with library prep and sequencing
- Experience making buffers or other laboratory reagents
- A “team” focused, collaborative scientist
- A self-motivated and driven individual who can exhibit exceptional research productivity
- A strong ability to take initiative and work independently
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
Responsibilities
- Assist with animal colony maintenance, genotyping, administration of experimental agents, tissue harvesting and staining (including fixation, embedding, and immunostaining).
- Maintain mammalian and primary cell lines.
- Perform molecular biology techniques, including cloning, RNA/DNA isolation, PCR.
- Perform biochemistry techniques, including protein purification and Western blotting.
- Support routine laboratory maintenance and preparation of materials and reagents.
- Maintain accurate and organized experimental records.
- Work collaboratively with laboratory members to support ongoing research projects and learn new experimental techniques.
Benefits
- All full-time employees of Van Andel Institute are eligible for benefits, effective Day One!
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
