Research Assistant
About The Position
The Research Assistant will conduct experiments in two projects: (1) Cell and Developmental Biology, focusing on how a protein of interest contributes to cellular functions and development using sea urchin embryonic cells and human cancer cells. (2) Evolutionary Developmental Biology, discovering how molecular evolution alters the developmental program and contributes to species diversity, using multiple echinoderm embryos. Both projects require skills in general molecular biology, cell biology, embryology, or live imaging such as general microscopy, microinjection, embryo handling, and confocal imaging. Necessary training for these experiments will be provided. This is a fixed-term position with a current end date of one year after the date of hire, which may be extended based upon available funding.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, cell biology, developmental biology or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience (for Grade 7).
- Bachelor degree in biology, biochemistry, genetics or related field and 1-2 years’ experience or equivalent combination of education and experience (for Grade 8).
- Undergraduate research experience with previous experience working in a laboratory setting.
- Relevant coursework and basic knowledge of laboratory approaches and techniques in the areas of Molecular, Cell Biology, and Developmental Biology.
- Relevant coursework and basic knowledge of laboratory approaches and techniques in the areas of Molecular, Cell Biology and Biochemistry (for Grade 8).
- Prior experience demonstrating precise and contamination-free handling of RNA, protein, and DNA samples is required (for Grade 8).
- Excellent written and communication skills.
- Ability to be observant and self-motivated.
- Ability to think critically and problem-solve.
- Ability to work as part of a team.
- Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with co-workers.
- Great attention to detail for every experiment with logical reasons.
- Good work ethic with honesty and accuracy.
- Criminal background and education check required.
Nice To Haves
- A completed and good-quality honorary thesis preferred (for Grade 7).
- Prior experience demonstrating precise and contamination-free handling of RNA, protein, and DNA samples is strongly desired (for Grade 7).
- Experience in general microscopy preferred.
- Experience in confocal live imaging and microinjection is highly preferred.
- Familiarity with the following software for data analysis, construction of images and movies and data presentation is highly preferred: FIJI, Image J, R, MatLab, MecaGen, Linux, Illustrator, Photoshop, Excel, PowerPoint.
Responsibilities
- Conduct experiments in Cell and Developmental Biology.
- Conduct experiments in Evolutionary Developmental Biology.
- Identify how a protein of interest contributes to cellular functions and development.
- Discover how molecular evolution alters the developmental program and contributes to species diversity.
- Utilize skills in general molecular biology, cell biology, embryology, and live imaging.
- Perform general microscopy, microinjection, embryo handling, and confocal imaging.
- Maintain good record and sample-keeping practices.
- Demonstrate precise and contamination-free handling of RNA, protein, and DNA samples.
- Perform accurate sample/data labeling, organization, and storage.
- Complete accurate records and follow detailed instructions.
- Communicate proactively with the PI and senior lab members.
- Report any questions and problems in a timely fashion.
Benefits
- Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
