Research Assistant - Hayes Lab

UIOWA • Iowa City, IA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

University of Iowa Health Care, Department of & Visual Sciences is seeking a 100% Research Assistant (PRK1; 3A). The Research Assistant—Hayes Lab will conduct preclinical vision science research in a collaborative environment under the direct supervision of Dr. Michael Hayes. The Research Assistant will contribute to projects aimed at elucidating disease mechanisms and identification of novel treatment strategies for neurodegenerative diseases affecting the visual system. This includes work in immortalized human cell lines, human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived tissue(s), and potentially murine (animal) models. The laboratory’s current focus included autoimmune mediated optic neuropathies and environmental exposure (toxin) associated neuropathies. The successful candidate is expected to work independently and in collaboration with students, scientists, and clinicians with expertise. University of Iowa Health Care—recognized as one of the best hospitals in the United States—is Iowa's only comprehensive academic medical center and a regional referral center. Each day more than 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers work together to provide safe, quality health care and excellent service for our patients. Simply stated, our mission is: Changing Medicine. Changing Lives. ® Percent of Time: 100% Schedule: Preferred schedule Monday - Friday, 8:00a-5:00p. Schedule may be modified to fit candidate and lab needs. Location: UIHC, Iowa City On Campus: This position is performed fully on campus. Pay Level: 3 A Position Type: Specified term. Initial appointment is for one year. Appointment may be extended based on performance and availability of funding.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or other biological science, or an appropriate combination of education and years of experience working in an academic research environment.
• Prior laboratory experience in a research/clinical setting or as part of a college curriculum
• Experience with tissue culture, molecular cloning, and molecular biology techniques preferred but not necessary
• Willingness to handle and work with small animals
• Strong organizational skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Proficiency with computer software including Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat and Excel database software

Nice To Haves

• Experience and/or coursework in the scientific research process, including in vitro and in vivo assays
• Knowledge of medical and scientific terminology.

Responsibilities

• Help design, perform, and analyze data related to translational research studies involving human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived tissue(s), with the potential to aid in development and implementation of murine neurobehavioral and visual system measures
• Maintenance and characterization (e.g., light and fluorescent microscopy) of cultured cells, including cellular reprogramming, 2D and 3D differentiation of visual pathway cells and glia.
• Application of molecular biology techniques such as DNA and RNA purification, molecular cloning, (rt)PCR, electrophoresis, and Sanger sequencing; as well as immunohistochemical and histochemical techniques.
• Work independently and in collaboration with team members to accomplish research tasks.
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to day-to-day lab tasks (e.g., maintenance of laboratory cell, animal, and reagents inventories).
• Collaborate in preparation or reports, manuscripts, and presentations

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees