Research Assistant (Gap Year) - Developmental Biology

Washington University in St. Louis • St. Louis, MO

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Pollina Lab at WashU in St. Louis is seeking a curious, motivated, highly organized Research Assistant (Gap Year) looking for experience in molecular neuroscience techniques. The Pollina Lab is broadly interested in identifying the molecular mechanisms that preserve longevity across the diverse cell types of the nervous system. We study mechanisms of transcriptional control and genome stability that preserve neuronal function over time and explore how these mechanisms go awry to cause aging and neurological disease. Our lab tackles these questions using a multidisciplinary approach that integrates biochemistry, single-cell genomics, cell biology, and neuronal circuit function. Specifically, we are seeking assistance for projects using mouse models to explore the role of neuronal activity in epigenome integrity. In this position, the individual will have the opportunity to learn cutting-edge molecular biology techniques, biochemical purification of protein complexes from tissue, new imaging modalities, small animal maintenance and surgeries, and single cell transcriptomics. They will also gain experience in bioinformatic analysis of sequencing and large-scale imaging datasets. This position is ideally suited for individuals seeking to launch a career in research science or medicine. We expect to teach the biochemical, molecular biology, and neuroscience approaches that will be used. Assists with various aspects of the research process in a laboratory setting under the direction of the PI and/or experienced laboratory personnel in order to gain experience to further future career opportunities. Guided activities may include literature review and initial research to identify experimental opportunities, experimental design, execution of experiments and troubleshooting, collection and analysis of data, and/or communication/presentation of results. This role is well-suited for those interested in a gap year(s) where they will be spending time in a research lab acquiring new skills under the direction of the PI and/or experienced laboratory personnel.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree
• No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.
• No specific work experience is required for this position.
• Not Applicable
• A driver's license is not required for this position.

Nice To Haves

• No additional education unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.
• No additional certification/professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.
• No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.
• Analytical Thinking
• Communication
• Data Entry
• Detail-Oriented
• Laboratory Instrumentation
• Research Labs
• Software Program

Responsibilities

• Under the direction of the PI or lab members, performs projects, experiments, data collection, and data analysis.
• Designs experiments under guidance of PI or senior lab members.
• Performs data entry and maintains lab notebook.
• Receives mentorship for activities related to career goals and objectives (i.e., PhD or MD programs).
• Under supervision, drafts materials for manuscripts, presentations, and/or posters.
• May present results as directed by PI.
• Reviews literature related to relevant research.
• Learns lab functions helpful in running a lab (e.g., purchasing, explaining protocols to other lab members).
• Assists in developing procedures and guidelines for the lab.
• Assists with general lab upkeep, maintenance, and cleaning.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
• Free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
• Defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.
• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!
• 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child.
• Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs.
• Adult care resources.
• Covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level