HudsonAlpha - Research Associate II - Cochran Lab

HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology•Huntsville, AL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing biotechnology and basic scientific research to improve human health, stimulate economic development, inspire young people in science, and educate the public. Located in Cummings Research Park, Huntsville, Alabama, HudsonAlpha's campus features state-of-the-art laboratories for research and education in genomics, genetics, and personalized medicine. The J. Nicholas Cochran laboratory focuses on using genomic approaches to address questions in neuroscience, particularly neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and other dementias. The lab also investigates neuropsychiatric diseases such as bipolar disorder and basic science projects on genome function in the brain. While not a requirement, familiarity or interest in genetics, genomics, neuroscience, neuropsychiatric diseases, and/or neurodegenerative diseases is desirable. Current projects involve studying gene regulation in disease-implicated genes, developing novel analytical methods for associating genetic variation with disease, employing genome-wide approaches for disease research, and exploring genome function in the brain. The Research Associate II plays a crucial dual role, supporting the lab's research mission by executing research protocols under the Principal Investigator's guidance and coordinating the daily operations of the laboratory. This position ensures the scientific integrity of research outcomes and the efficient functioning of lab facilities, fostering an environment for high-quality research. The Research Associate must understand laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Beyond a general grasp of the research project's objectives, they need to understand the specific methodologies outlined by the Sr. Scientist during supervision. The role involves communicating progress and advising on any emerging issues. Approximately 60-70% of the time will be dedicated to research activities, with the remaining 30% allocated to laboratory coordination. Research Associates may work with either materials or data.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a "STEM" field + 2-3 years of relevant laboratory experience or Master's degree in a "STEM" field with demonstrated laboratory competency
Meticulous attention to detail, both in actual laboratory practice and in documentation
Excellent laboratory skills, including proficiency in pipetting, documentation, and procedure (clinical, sterile, or molecular, depending on the needs of the laboratory)
Ability to accurately convert measurements as required
Ability to understand protocols, clarify as needed, and perform protocols with consistency, as demonstrated through previous laboratory experience
Ability to operate basic equipment (PCR machine, gel electrophoresis, tabletop centrifuge, etc.) and troubleshoot basic problems
Experience with Google Workspace (Gmail, Sheets, Docs)

Nice To Haves

Subject area familiarity and/or interest in genetics, genomics, neuroscience, neuropsychiatric diseases, and/or neurodegenerative diseases is desirable
Experience with mammalian cell culture is preferred

Responsibilities

Execute hands-on laboratory work and research assignments according to protocols established by the lead investigator
Work directly with materials and/or data as assigned by the project
Follow procedures exactly as outlined, ensuring consistency of research practices and integrity of project outcomes
Provide feedback in the case that procedures are not producing expected results
Immediately review initial outcomes for quality and consistency
Maintain an accurate and up-to-date laboratory notebook or track work as required by the project or supervisor
Perform mammalian cell culture and/or molecular cloning procedures (position will periodically require limited weekend hours)
Adapt to modifications in protocol, changes in equipment, upgrades in software, and adjustments to research project scope
Communicate research progress regularly and advise supervisors of any issues that arise
Coordinate management of laboratory material stocking, inventory, and procurement
Order reagents and supplies, maintaining adequate inventory levels to support ongoing research
Maintain relations with external vendors and collaborators, including sample shipment and data exchange, as assigned
Handle incoming shipments and packages
Organize and maintain reagent storage systems
Troubleshoot basic equipment problems (PCR machine, gel electrophoresis, tabletop centrifuge, etc.)
Support laboratory safety compliance and ensure adherence to proper laboratory procedures
Train and assist new laboratory members in laboratory safety and basic molecular techniques
Coordinate basic laboratory infrastructure needs