Research Associate I
About The Position
The Research Associate will work independently, applying prior experience in cell culture, biochemistry, and molecular biology. Primary responsibilities include developing, designing, managing, and executing experiments involving: Cell culture techniques (treatment, harvesting, transfection) Molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA extraction, exosome isolation, quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot analysis, ELISAs, immunohistochemistry) Processing of human biological samples — saliva, tracheal aspirate, blood, stool, and urine — under approved research protocols. The incumbent must communicate regularly and effectively with the PI and research team, maintain a high degree of professionalism, and demonstrate strong time management and priority-setting skills. Flexibility to work in a dynamic laboratory environment is required, including occasional flexible hours to accommodate time-sensitive cell line work.
Requirements
- Cell culture techniques (treatment, harvesting, transfection)
- Molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA extraction, exosome isolation, quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot analysis, ELISAs, immunohistochemistry)
- Processing of human biological samples — saliva, tracheal aspirate, blood, stool, and urine — under approved research protocols
- High school diploma or GED or equivalent
- 2 years of experience in lieu of a diploma/GED
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor of Science degree in Biology or a related scientific field.
- Minimum of one (1) year of relevant research experience.
- Basic familiarity with cell culture techniques required; prior hands-on cell culture experience is required.
- Bachelor's degree in a related field of study.
Responsibilities
- Maintain inventory of raw materials, buffers, and reagents, including accurate record-keeping.
- Order equipment and supplies for the laboratory across all grants and general lab needs, remaining within budget; request price quotes and generate purchase orders.
- Demonstrate proficient knowledge of the principles, practices, and procedures needed to complete complex research assignments.
- Manage small projects, including assessing feasibility of goals and objectives and ensuring efficient use of time and resources.
- Review project progress and evaluate results.
- Identify and propose technical solutions for troubleshooting experimental processes.
- Stay current techniques and equipment relevant to the lab's research, including extending existing technologies into new applications.
- Advise the Senior PI on updated methods and troubleshooting strategies as needed.
- Develop new techniques, concepts, and approaches to address complex research questions.
- Utilize graphics and statistical software to analyze data for presentation at research conferences and in manuscript preparation.
- Assists with operation of analytical equipment.
- Assists with quantitating various nutrients, chemicals, drugs and/or metabolites, ensuring quality and accurate results are provided.
- Assists with extractions of metabolites and DNA extractions from a variety of biological substrates.
- Assists with maintenance of laboratory equipment to keep it in proper working condition.
- Observes and learns about the proper handling of radioactive and other hazardous chemicals.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Flu vaccines are required.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
