Research Assistant - Department of Ophthalmology Visual & Anatomical Sciences

Wayne State University•Detroit, MI

56d•Onsite

About The Position

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant - Department of Ophthalmology Visual & Anatomical Sciences at its Detroit campus location. Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society. Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, provide scientific and technical assistance to complete laboratory based, clinical or population science research. May assist in writing research protocols and in manuscript preparation. Design and perform research protocols independently or as directed through training in more difficult or specialized procedures to meet the needs of the research protocol. The Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences (OVAS) at Wayne State University is seeking a motivated Research Assistant to join the Berger laboratory, which focuses on corneal biology, wound healing, and ocular complications associated with diabetes and infection. The successful candidate will support ongoing NIH-funded studies investigating molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the corneal response to infections using in vitro and in vivo models.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a related field of study, preferred. Requires advanced knowledge predominantly intellectual in character in a field of science or learning acquired by a prolonged course of specialized intellectual instruction.
Entry level (less that a year of job-related experience)
Experience performing basic research techniques or interacting with human subjects, preferred.
Ability to work independently.
Ability to analyze, summarize and interpret research findings and data in reports and spreadsheets and communicate results.
Knowledge of scientific integrity principles.
Excellent time management and organization skills.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and demonstrated ability to work with others in a collaborative environment.
Microsoft office software skills.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in biology, neuroscience, physiology, or a related field
Basic laboratory experience, including sterile technique and molecular assays
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to follow protocols accurately
Capacity to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment
Willingness to work with animal and cell culture models, including handling of biohazardous materials
Experience with rodent handling and tissue collection
Familiarity with microscopy and immunostaining
Prior exposure to diabetes or ocular disease research models
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data management software

Responsibilities

Perform laboratory based scientific techniques or clinical/population science (human subjects) research.
Design and perform experiments, recruit participants for studies by developing surveys and interviewing candidates.
Participate in implementing research objectives, ensuring compliance with all legal, regulatory and protocol guidelines.
Assist staff with experiments/research protocols as required.
Communicate with principal investigator and Postdoctoral scholars/fellows on the status of research.
Collect and log laboratory results, clinical outcomes and/or survey data.
Evaluate and perform data analysis using graphs, charts or tables to highlight the key points of the research results collected in accordance with the research protocols as stipulated.
Proofread and edit research data and documents to ensure accuracy.
Assist principal investigator with writing methods and summarizing/organizing data to be used in preparing and presenting presentations for professional, scientific and academic conferences and submittal to academic and scholarly peer-reviewed journals.
Maintain the laboratory work areas including routine maintenance on laboratory equipment as required.
Order and organize required research supplies and records.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of work station.
Assist with experimental design, data collection, and data analysis.
Perform cell culture experiments, including wound healing and barrier assays.
Conduct molecular biology techniques (e.g., RNA/protein extraction, qPCR, Western blotting, ELISA).
Support histological and immunohistochemical preparation of ocular tissues.
Help with animal care and experimental procedures under IACUC-approved protocols.
Maintain laboratory supplies, reagents, and equipment.
Ensure accurate documentation of experiments and adherence to safety and compliance protocols.
Perform other related duties as assigned.