Research Assistant

Brown University•Sidney, OH

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Research Assistant will support research in the O'Connor-Giles Laboratory, which studies synapse formation, function, and plasticity in Drosophila melanogaster. The lab uses genetic, imaging, physiological, and behavioral tools in the fly model to identify and characterize conserved synaptic genes, with a focus on those associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. The Research Assistant will focus on a current project PDZD8, a new signaling molecule the lab identified as a positive regulator of activity-dependent synaptogenesis. PDZD8 operates at signaling sites between organelles where the exchange of lipids, ions, and other metabolites regulates the formation of new synapses in response to neuronal activity. This work connects intracellular signaling at membrane contact sites to protein turnover in neurons and to nervous system development and has implications for how PDZD8 disruption causes intellectual disability in humans. The Research Assistant will have four primary duties: Performing Drosophila brain dissection, immunohistochemistry and microscopy. Preparing Drosophila brain samples for proteomics studies, including analysis, visualization and interpretation of results. Molecular cloning to generate transgenes and CRISPR alleles for in vivo studies. Drosophila husbandry, maintenance and genetics. The Research Assistant will also support the lab's broader research activities, including general lab maintenance and contributing to manuscript preparation. This is a fixed-term position with an end date of one year from the date of hire, which may be extended depending on available funding.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Neurobiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics or related science and prior research experience or extensive coursework (Grade 7)
Bachelor’s degree in Neurobiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics or related science and 1 to 2 years of experience. (Grade 8)
Interest in scientific research
Proficiency with computers and essential software programs
Maintain agreed upon day-time work hours to allow for assistance of experiments for lab members
Good written and verbal communication skills
Excellent organizational, record keeping, task prioritization, and report preparation skills
Ability to collaborate on projects
Dependability and accuracy in work
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with a diverse group of people, with very different backgrounds, skills and training
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND AND EDUCATION CHECK REQUIRED

Nice To Haves

2+ years of prior related research experience or extensive coursework in an organized biology research laboratory (Grade 8)
Knowledge of experimental planning and design or willingness to learn
Proficiency in data visualization or willingness to learn
Proficiency in data analysis, including statistical analysis or willingness to learn
Familiarity with use of Drosophila as a model organism or willingness to learn

Responsibilities

Performing Drosophila brain dissection, immunohistochemistry and microscopy.
Preparing Drosophila brain samples for proteomics studies, including analysis, visualization and interpretation of results.
Molecular cloning to generate transgenes and CRISPR alleles for in vivo studies.
Drosophila husbandry, maintenance and genetics.
Support the lab's broader research activities, including general lab maintenance and contributing to manuscript preparation.