Research Assistant

Brown University • Sidney, OH

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Assistant will work closely with senior staff to carry out research in the areas of molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology and developmental biology in a Drosophila lab. The position is required to prepare reagents, prepare the equipment and supplies needed for experiments, oversee and maintain Drosophila fly stocks including the preparation of fly food. In addition, this position will help set up experiments and collect and analyze data. This position will perform experiments according to established laboratory protocols, and will provide technical assistance, as instructed, toward the development of new procedures. The Helfand Laboratory’s research focuses on understanding the molecular, cellular and genetic mechanisms underlying the process of aging and the determination of life span using the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, as a model system. We use of a combination of molecular, genetic, cellular, neurobiological, pharmacological, immunological, and behavioral approaches to understand the process of aging and how life span is determined. By combining the powerful molecular genetic techniques available in the Drosophila melanogaster with knowledge of the fly's physiology, anatomy, behavior, and life span altering interventions, we have helped develop an unparalleled model for studying the molecular genetic elements of aging. This is a fixed term position with a current end date of two years from the date of hire, which may be extended based upon available funding.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, genetics or related field with prior related experience or extensive coursework
• Equivalent combination of education and experience
• 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 Biochemistry
• Conceptually comfortable with genetic and molecular genetic approaches
• Attention to detail, outstanding hand/eye coordination, consistent execution of multi-step protocols
• Ability to learn new skills quickly
• Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills
• Excellent written and communication skills
• Ability to be observant and self-motivated
• Ability to think critically and problem-solve
• Ability to complete accurate records and follow detailed instructions
• Ability to work as part of a team, strong interpersonal skills
• CRIMINAL BACKGROUND AND EDUCATION CHECK REQUIRED

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with Drosophila melanogaster
• Strong computer skills with experience using laboratory data programs
• Previous experience working with scientific data bases
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office software suite and competence in statistical analysis using Graph Pad software

Responsibilities

• Prepare reagents
• Prepare the equipment and supplies needed for experiments
• Oversee and maintain Drosophila fly stocks including the preparation of fly food
• Help set up experiments
• Collect and analyze data
• Perform experiments according to established laboratory protocols
• Provide technical assistance, as instructed, toward the development of new procedures

Benefits

• Information on the Benefits of Working at Brown can be found here

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees