On-Call, Jr. Research Assistant

Santa Clara University•Santa Clara, CA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

To assist in the data acquisition and data analysis of experimental laboratory research under the direction of Professor Korin Wheeler, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry.

Requirements

Basic understanding of working safely in a chemical laboratory.
Basic understanding of principles of biochemical reactivity.
Basic understanding of stoichiometry.
Basic understanding of principles of colloidal chemistry.
Basic understanding of spectroscopic analysis of biomolecules molecules.
Safe handling of hazardous chemicals.
Spectroscopic characterization of biological molecules and colloids.
Spectroscopic data acquisition and analysis.
Basic familiarity with coding: writing and editing scripts for data processing.
Use of routine laboratory equipment, including balances and micropipettes.
Searching and critical reading of the scientific literature.
Basic scientific writing.
Understand and follow laboratory safety regulations.
Work independently.
Work cooperatively as part of a research team, including regular progress reports to supervisor and other members of the laboratory.
Keep detailed records of work in laboratory notebook.
Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry or closely aligned field preferred.
2 years of laboratory research experience required.
Ability to effectively establish and maintain cooperative working relationships within a diverse multicultural environment.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry or closely aligned field

Responsibilities

Assist in the Characterization and Study of protein-nanoparticle interactions
Evaluate nanomaterial size and surface properties using advanced instrumentation, including dynamic light scattering (DLS).
Quantify, identify, and characterize proteins using advanced instrumentation including mass spectrometry (MS), quantitative protein assays (e.g. Braford or BCA), circular dichroism (CD), and other optical spectroscopy techniques.
Analyze and process spectroscopic data to generate plots and figures.
Execute routine troubleshooting of commonly used instrumentation in the laboratory by interfacing with laboratory management staff and/or service representatives.
Conduct searches of the scientific literature at the request of the supervisor and summarize findings, including posting articles to online repositories.
Prepare bibliographies for and proofread grant proposals and research articles produced by the supervisor.
Keep a working inventory of routinely used chemicals and consumables, and place orders with vendors to replenish these as needed.
Execute and report regular online laboratory safety inspections via the university portal.
Remedy minor safety code infractions within the laboratory.
Write standard operating procedure protocol documents to train new students to execute routine laboratory procedures safely and reproducibly.
Ensures that undergraduate student researchers maintain a safe laboratory environment and adhere to standard laboratory procedures.
Identifies and determines cause of problems; develops and presents recommendations for improvement of established processes and practices.
Maximizes productivity through use of appropriate tools.
Researches and develops resources that create timely and efficient workflow.
Prepares progress reports, informs supervisor of project status and deviation from goals.
Ensures completeness, accuracy and timeliness of all operational functions.
Prepares and submits written or oral reports as requested and required.
Develops and implements standard operating procedures to support the functions of the laboratory.