Research Associate II, Biological Sciences

University of Delaware•Newark, DE

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the general direction and supervision of Dr. Tanis, the Research Associate II participates in research using the model organism C. elegans to identify mechanisms that regulate the shedding and uptake of extracellular vesicles from neurons. The role uses imaging, genetic, cell biological, and biochemical approaches. The researcher conceptualizes, designs, and conducts experiments; maintains a notebook of procedures and results; analyzes data; and creates figures. The position also involves sharing experimental results with the lab group, working with graduate and undergraduate students, maintaining laboratory equipment and research records, and supporting safe laboratory operations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or a related field and two years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education.
Experience working in a laboratory on an independent research project using cellular and molecular biology techniques.
Knowledge and skill with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; plasmid design; DNA sequencing; and image analysis software.
Knowledge of the use and maintenance of laboratory facilities and/or equipment.
Background in genetics.
Effective organizational and oral communication skills.
Ability to understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures; design, organize, and coordinate scientific and/or engineering research projects; and develop and follow research methodology and protocols.
Ability to interact well with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds.
Ability to work various and sometimes long hours due to experiment timing, including possibly weekends and evenings.
Ability to lift up to 20 lbs. without assistance.
Dexterity in handling delicate and hazardous materials, and ability to accurately discern colors and measure laboratory materials.

Nice To Haves

Experience with confocal microscopy.

Responsibilities

Plan and conduct experiments using C. elegans that require an understanding of genetics; analyze data and interpret results.
Operate basic laboratory equipment, including light and fluorescent microscopes, centrifuges, pH meters, analytical balances, spectrophotometers, and gel documentation systems.
Perform live-animal confocal imaging and analyze acquired images using Imaris and ImageJ software.
Design and create new C. elegans strains using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing.
Perform molecular biology and biochemical techniques, including PCR, qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and co-immunoprecipitation.
Use information from primary journal articles to conduct relevant experiments and interpret results.
Present experimental results to the lab group for discussion and future planning.
Communicate and work with graduate and undergraduate students in the research lab.
Ensure proper use and maintenance of laboratory equipment, make minor adjustments when necessary, and develop protocols to assist lab members in proper equipment use.
Comply with Department of Environmental Health and Safety, OSHA, and biohazard safety standards when handling potentially hazardous chemical and biological agents, and promote workplace safety.
Maintain laboratory strain and primer databases, monitor inventory levels, and order supplies according to established policies.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.