Research Assistant-Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Lab

UIOWA•Iowa City, IA

20h•Onsite

About The Position

This position is not eligible for university sponsorship for employment authorization. BASIC FUNCTION Perform research in the area of complement mediated renal diseases, perform clinical testing as a member of the CDS renal team and perform research and development. The Research Assistant will work with frozen serum and plasma samples received into the Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories – Clinical Diagnostics Services (MORL CDS) for Functional and Biomarker testing. The RA will perform sample accessioning, aliquoting, perform assays, report results, maintain inventory and quality management for the CDS. KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY Research: Perform research activities based upon protocols developed by other research staff or principal investigator of the research project. Read and review articles as directed. As individual skills develop, analyze literature to develop hypothesis for discussion with other researchers or principal investigator. Experiments, Investigations, Evaluations: Read and understand protocols. Conduct sample recording, pre-analytical sample handling and sample inventory and storages Conduct biochemical assay such as ELISAs, immunoelectrophoresis, complement activity assay and other functional assays Calibrate and operate laboratory equipment including thermocyclers, centrifuges, and spectrophotometers. Arrange and plan daily activities to prepare for experimental protocols. As individual skills develop perform complex techniques as outlined in research protocols and test and evaluate current procedures. Set up and operate equipment for experiments. Perform experimental procedures assuring fidelity to protocols; record and consolidate data as directed by Technical Supervisor (TS) and/or Principal Investigator (PI). Track progress/success of research project. Review QA (quality assessment) with TS periodically. As skills develop may present results at lab and/or group meetings. As skills develop, develop and monitor quality controls. Collect, Analyze and Summarize Data; Prepare Reports; Contribute to Manuscripts, Publications: Collect, track, and perform data entry for reports. Prepare materials for reports. Managing large data sets and maintaining highly organized and detailed research records. As skills develop, analyze data. Prepare bibliographies and abstracts for publications. Administrative and Project Management: Perform a variety of routine tasks related to the recruitment, enrollment and monitoring of research subjects or to the research environment (lab, clinic, field, classroom). Obtain subject consent and assist with IRB submissions or equivalent protocol, if applicable. Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines. Facilities and Equipment Management: Assist in the preparation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory and facility equipment. Assist with procurement of supplies and materials. May initiate purchasing requests, monitor accounts/expenditures; reconcile statements. Supervision/Staffing: May train, provide direction, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling of employees to assure outcomes are achieved. The department intends to hire for one position as either a Research Assistant, requisition 26002127 or Research Associate, requisition 26002128, based on the qualifications of the successful candidate. Please apply to the specific position for which you which to be considered or both.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., biology, biochemistry, immunology) or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Hands-on wet-lab experience with immunology/biochemistry techniques, including PCR and/or ELISA and/or DNA/protein electrophoresis.
Strong attention to detail with accurate documentation and data recording.

Nice To Haves

Experience handling human specimens (serum/plasma) and following biosafety practices.
Familiarity with complement assays or related immunoassays.
Experience working with SOPs and basic quality practices.

Responsibilities

Perform research activities based upon protocols developed by other research staff or principal investigator of the research project.
Read and review articles as directed.
Analyze literature to develop hypothesis for discussion with other researchers or principal investigator.
Read and understand protocols.
Conduct sample recording, pre-analytical sample handling and sample inventory and storages
Conduct biochemical assay such as ELISAs, immunoelectrophoresis, complement activity assay and other functional assays
Calibrate and operate laboratory equipment including thermocyclers, centrifuges, and spectrophotometers.
Arrange and plan daily activities to prepare for experimental protocols.
Perform complex techniques as outlined in research protocols and test and evaluate current procedures.
Set up and operate equipment for experiments.
Perform experimental procedures assuring fidelity to protocols; record and consolidate data as directed by Technical Supervisor (TS) and/or Principal Investigator (PI).
Track progress/success of research project.
Review QA (quality assessment) with TS periodically.
Present results at lab and/or group meetings.
Develop and monitor quality controls.
Collect, track, and perform data entry for reports.
Prepare materials for reports.
Managing large data sets and maintaining highly organized and detailed research records.
Analyze data.
Prepare bibliographies and abstracts for publications.
Perform a variety of routine tasks related to the recruitment, enrollment and monitoring of research subjects or to the research environment (lab, clinic, field, classroom).
Obtain subject consent and assist with IRB submissions or equivalent protocol, if applicable.
Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines.
Assist in the preparation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory and facility equipment.
Assist with procurement of supplies and materials.
May initiate purchasing requests, monitor accounts/expenditures; reconcile statements.
May train, provide direction, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling of employees to assure outcomes are achieved.