Research Associate 1 or 2 - Integrated Physiology and Molecular Medicine
About The Position
Pennington Biomedical Research Center, a world-renowned academic research institute of Louisiana State University, is seeking a Research Associate in the Integrated Physiology and Molecular Medicine Laboratory. The primary focus will be maintain breeding colonies (colony management and record-keeping, track genetics of genetically modified mouse strains and health), husbandry and animal care (monitor overall health of mouse colonies, signs of illness and work closely with veterinary staff), support research in the lab by performing routine mouse procedures (earmarking, tailing, ITT, GTT, IP-injections, blood collection, treadmill/exercise, wire hanging, tissue collection etc) and data management (managing electronic systems and animal database).
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in biology, biomedical sciences, animal science, or a related field
- Basic molecular biology knowledge skills, including DNA/RNA extraction and genotyping
- Familiarity with molecular biology techniques such as PCR and gel-electrophoresis
- Familiarity with laboratory safety procedures and handling of biohazardous materials
- Ability to follow detailed protocols and maintain accurate records of experimental procedures and data
- Ability to troubleshoot equipment with some level of independence
- Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Nice To Haves
- Experience working with laboratory animals, particularly mice and/or rats, in a research setting
- Two or more years of hands-on experience with rodent colony management, including breeding schemes and phenotyping
- Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, Western blotting, or RNA extraction
- Experience using behavioral assays or other phenotyping tools for mice/rats.
- Experience with laboratory data management systems and basic statistical analysis software such as Promethion live, Macro Interpreter, Cal-R, Expedata, Ethovision, Anymaze)
- Knowledge or experience using equipment for metabolic and/or behavioral phenotyping of laboratory rodents
Responsibilities
- Maintain and manage mouse colonies, including breeding, genotyping, and coordinating animal care in compliance with research protocols.
- Perform experiments involving the handling of mice, tissue collection, processing, and analysis.
- Coordinate with lab staff to align experimental activities with study timelines and research objectives.
- Set up, operate, sanitize, and properly store laboratory equipment and instrumentation; perform regular system checks to ensure functionality.
- Troubleshoot technical issues with data collection and equipment; manage software updates, inventory, and repairs as needed.
- Establish, implement, and ensure compliance with laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of experimental procedures, data, and observations in lab notebooks.
- Monitor and restock common lab supplies; oversee proper disposal of biohazardous waste.
- Mentor students and support personnel in laboratory procedures, including assay result calculation and data analysis.
Benefits
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Industry
Educational Services
Number of Employees
1,001-5,000 employees
