50-100% Research Assistant - Pulmonary

UIOWA•Iowa City, IA

About The Position

The Research Assistant provides support for pulmonary research by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing results, and performing operational duties associated with laboratory, animal, or human research. Responsibilities include research activities, data collection and reporting, administrative and project management, facilities and equipment support, and potentially supervision or staffing as skills develop. The position performs research according to protocols developed by other research staff or the principal investigator, reviews articles, and may develop hypotheses for discussion as skills grow. The role involves planning and carrying out protocol-based activities, operating research equipment, maintaining safety and quality standards, collecting and tracking data, and supporting reports, publications, regulatory documentation, purchasing, and equipment maintenance. Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques and comfort working with research animals are desirable.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
One year of experience required.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with basic laboratory research techniques, including sample processing, qPCR, ELISA, DNA/RNA extraction, and cell culture techniques.
Comfort working with research animals if needed.

Responsibilities

Perform research activities based on protocols developed by research staff or the principal investigator.
Read and review articles as directed and, as skills develop, analyze literature to develop hypotheses for discussion.
Read and understand protocols; plan daily research activities and prepare protocols.
Set up and operate research materials or equipment and perform procedures in accordance with protocols.
Perform varied tasks in laboratory, clinic, field, or classroom research environments while adhering to safety and compliance guidelines.
Collect, record, consolidate, and track data and research progress as directed by the principal investigator.
Follow quality assurance protocols to maintain the validity and integrity of research data.
As skills develop, troubleshoot and propose protocol modifications, perform complex techniques, evaluate procedures, develop data-integrity monitoring procedures, and present results at team meetings.
Track data, perform data entry, maintain records of methods used, and prepare materials for reports.
As skills develop, analyze data and prepare bibliographies and abstracts for publications; may present findings at team and departmental meetings.
Assist with IRB, ACURF, or similar protocol submissions when applicable.
Track project progress indicators and summarize them in reports to the research team.
Assist in documenting compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines.
Assist with preparing, calibrating, and maintaining laboratory and facility equipment.
Assist with procurement of supplies and materials and may initiate purchasing requests, monitor accounts or expenditures, and reconcile statements.
As skills develop, may train and direct employees, assign work, and provide feedback, coaching, and counseling.