Research Assistant

Saint Louis University • St. Louis, MO

67d

About The Position

Saint Louis University, founded in 1818, is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. SLU is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service. We are currently seeking applicants for a research assistant position in the Edward A. Doisy Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. This position is available immediately. The ideal candidates should possess a bachelor's degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, or biophysics, along with research experience in molecular cloning and mammalian cell culture. Dr. Gucan Dai's laboratory focuses on gaining a molecular understanding of neuronal and cardiac ion channels, which play a crucial role in diseases such as chronic pain, cardiac arrhythmia, and epilepsy. Additionally, the lab investigates the cellular dynamics of signaling lipids and the electrical properties of lipid membranes. Candidates with experience in molecular biology, quantitative analysis and biochemistry will be given preference, and the ability to work effectively in a team and assist or mentor other lab trainees is highly valued.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in science or a closely related field.
• Broad knowledge involving laboratory techniques or other specialized knowledge is desired.
• Knowledge of laboratory procedures: RT-PCR, histology, mRNA extraction.
• Knowledge of the use and preparation of culture media, chemicals, and reagents.
• Verbal and written communication skills.
• Interpersonal/human relation skills.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to tend to details.
• Ability to maintain records and inventories.
• Ability to operate a personal computer.

Nice To Haves

• Research experience in molecular cloning and mammalian cell culture.
• Experience in molecular biology, quantitative analysis, and biochemistry.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and assist or mentor other lab trainees.

Responsibilities

• Assists with research projects; performs independent research; plans, designs and implements research projects.
• Prepares and maintains culture media, reagents, and experimental animals; grows cultures; administers injections; performs various assays.
• Sterilizes equipment; separates and purifies various materials and substances using such techniques as chromatography and electrophoresis.
• Orders laboratory supplies; performs library research; prepares compounds; interprets experimental test data; performs minor equipment repairs.
• Cuts, stains and mounts specimens; sets-up and operates various scientific apparatus including spectrophotometer, fraction collectors, centrifuges, incubators, homogenizers, and various microscopes.
• Performs various clerical duties including typing, answering phones, preparing correspondence, preparing and maintaining bibliographies, and completing applications and forms.
• Compiles processes and analyzes data; records research procedures and results; files and maintains records; codes data for input for electronic data processing; inputs and retrieves data using computers.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree