Research Associate III

University of Massachusetts Medical School•Worcester, MA

2d•$46,000 - $62,000

About The Position

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI) or designee, the Research Associate III performs a variety of research experiments with independence. The role may also provide general operational management to the laboratory and its personnel. The position involves conducting complex experiments and independent research projects; interpreting and analyzing data; maintaining accurate records and protocols; presenting findings; supporting laboratory operations, safety, compliance, and personnel training; and assisting with budgets, grants, and manuscripts as needed.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Biological or Natural Science and at least 3 years of relevant research experience, or a related Master’s degree with 1 year of relevant research experience.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office products.
Strong ability to analyze complex visual data quantitatively and objectively.
Ability to work in a team environment.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency with managing IACUC protocols.
At least 5 years of experience working with mice.
Experience with animal surgeries.
Proficiency in collecting samples from mice, including blood and harvested tissues.

Responsibilities

Perform complex laboratory experiments and may be responsible for one or more independent research projects.
Use software relevant to experiments and equipment.
Interpret data, form conclusions, and determine next steps with significant independence under the direction of the PI or designee.
Maintain accurate records and modify protocols with approval from the PI or designee.
Review literature, publications, and grants relevant to assigned projects.
Record results according to established laboratory, sponsor, and university protocols.
Perform in-depth data analysis and/or mathematical computations.
Maintain a detailed laboratory notebook according to laboratory practice.
Compile and analyze data and present it in a publication-suitable format according to PI specifications.
Present findings at laboratory or group meetings and other forums.
Oversee laboratory supply levels and ordering as needed, and negotiate with suppliers to optimize resources.
Monitor laboratory equipment service contracts and maintenance.
Prepare and label buffers, media, solutions, and related materials.
Assist with and comply with safety regulations and infection control standards.
Train on IACUC, IRB, EHS, and radiation safety protocols; may write standard operating procedures in compliance with protocols and regulations.
Comply with applicable state, federal, university, and sponsor policies and agreements.
May manage general laboratory operations, including personnel, procedures, and projects.
Identify problems and challenges, propose resolutions, and implement appropriate solutions.
May create new protocols or modify defined protocols as necessary, with PI approval.
Prioritize and perform several tasks or procedures simultaneously with attention to detail.
Perform duties and experiments independently.
Train new laboratory personnel.
May monitor laboratory spending in accordance with budget guidelines provided by the PI or designee.
May assist with budget and operational aspects of grant and contract funding.
May assist with drafting manuscript sections.
Perform other duties as required.