Research Assistant I/II/III

Mercer University•Columbus, GA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The School of Medicine on the Columbus, Georgia campus is searching for a Research Assistant. The incumbent will provide research related to immunology and infectious disease. Ongoing projects in the lab include studying how sleep affects sepsis. The candidate should have a strong interest in research, excellent communication skills, a positive attitude and the ability to work as part of a diverse team. The candidate must be proficient in basic lab techniques. It is preferred for the candidate to have experience in some or all of the following: immunology/molecular biology assays (e.g. ELISA, flow cytometry, PCR), mouse handing, monitoring, husbandry, surgical and non-surgical animal procedures, and analysis of sleep, otherwise the candidate must be willing to learn these techniques. The candidate must have the ability to work under minimal supervision (after training), and show traits of a good scientist (integrity, accountability, critical thinking skills, attention to detail, organization and time management skills).

Requirements

Bachelor's degree
Proficient in basic lab techniques
Ability to work under minimal supervision (after training)
Integrity, accountability, critical thinking skills, attention to detail, organization and time management skills
Research Assistant I: some related research experience.
Research Assistant II: a minimum of one year of related research experience.
Research Assistant III: three years of related research experience, of which some of that time must be in a lead role, or a master's degree and one year of relevant research experience, of which some of that time must be in a lead role. (The lead role must clearly be identified.)
Basic principles of scientific research methods and study design (RA I).
Introductory understanding of medical or biomedical terminology (RA I).
General knowledge of data collection methods (charts, surveys, lab records) (RA I).
Accurate data entry and recordkeeping (RA I).
Ability to follow written protocols and SOPs (RA I).
Basic computer skills (Word, Excel, data entry systems, etc.) (RA I).
Clear written and verbal communication (RA I).
Time management and ability to prioritize assigned tasks (RA I).
Ability to learn research procedures quickly and apply guidance (RA I).
Ability to work effectively as part of a research team (RA I).
Ability to maintain attention to detail and accuracy (RA I).
Ability to interact professionally with faculty and staff (RA I).
Ability to handle routine research tasks with supervision (RA I).
Working knowledge of clinical or translational research processes (RA II).
Understanding of IRB submissions, amendments, and compliance requirements (RA II).
Knowledge of study protocols, consent processes, and data quality standards (RA II).
Familiarity with basic statistics and data management practices (RA II).
Knowledge of institutional policies related to research billing, documentation, and audits (RA II).
Independent data collection, validation, and quality control (RA II).
Preparation of IRB materials, regulatory binders, and study documentation (RA II).
Proficient use of research databases (e.g., REDCap, EMR extraction, spreadsheets) (RA II).
Coordination of study visits and research activities (RA II).
Problem-solving and protocol deviation identification (RA II).
Professional communication with investigators, collaborators, and participants (RA II).
Ability to work with minimal supervision (RA II).
Ability to manage multiple studies or complex protocols (RA II).
Ability to interpret and implement research procedures accurately (RA II).
Ability to identify issues and recommend solutions (RA II).
Ability to mentor or guide entry-level staff or students (RA II).
Advanced knowledge of clinical research regulations (FDA, OHRP, GCP) (RA III).
In-depth understanding of study design, implementation, and lifecycle management (RA III).
Knowledge of grant-funded research, reporting requirements, and timelines (RA III).
Understanding of data analysis concepts and research outcomes (RA III).
Knowledge of risk management, audits, and quality assurance in research (RA III).
Oversight of complex or multi-site studies (RA III).
Leadership and training of junior research staff (RA III).
Development and revision of SOPs and study workflows (RA III).
Advanced data management and collaboration with biostatisticians (RA III).
Drafting reports, abstracts, and supporting materials for publications or grants (RA III).
Stakeholder coordination with institutional leadership, sponsors, and investigators (RA III).
Ability to provide technical and functional leadership for research teams (RA III).
Ability to independently manage high-risk or high-visibility studies (RA III).
Ability to anticipate compliance risks and implement corrective actions (RA III).
Ability to contribute to strategic planning for research programs (RA III).
Ability to serve as a subject-matter expert for research operations (RA III).

Nice To Haves

Experience in some or all of the following: immunology/molecular biology assays (e.g. ELISA, flow cytometry, PCR), mouse handing, monitoring, husbandry, surgical and non-surgical animal procedures, and analysis of sleep
Willingness to learn immunology/molecular biology assays, mouse handling, monitoring, husbandry, surgical and non-surgical animal procedures, and analysis of sleep

Responsibilities

Provide research related to immunology and infectious disease.
Study how sleep affects sepsis.
Work under minimal supervision (after training).
Show traits of a good scientist (integrity, accountability, critical thinking skills, attention to detail, organization and time management skills).