Research Associate

SJSU Research Foundation • San Jose, CA

6d • $28 - $30

About The Position

The Research Associate supports and conducts neuroscience research in the VanHoven Laboratory at San José State University. The role conducts experiments using C. elegans, including genetic crosses, microscopy, behavioral assays, and molecular biology experiments. It also supports laboratory safety compliance by maintaining an updated chemical inventory in the RSS system, assisting with training new students, and following biological use authorizations (BUAs), chemical standard operating procedures (SOPs), and other safety requirements. The position orders supplies and equipment as needed, assists student researchers, and promotes a respectful laboratory environment with equitable opportunities for all students.

The position reports to Dr. Miri VanHoven and frequently interacts with research students in the laboratory. There are no direct supervisory responsibilities, though the Research Associate helps train research students. The role requires a BS in Biology or Chemistry and two years of research experience in a biology or chemistry laboratory, as well as at least two years conducting the specified C. elegans neuroscience experiments and at least one year of laboratory safety-compliance experience. A background check must be completed satisfactorily before an offer can be made.

Requirements

• BS in Biology or Chemistry.
• Two years of research experience in a biology or chemistry laboratory.
• At least two years of experience conducting neuroscience experiments using C. elegans, including genetic crosses, microscopy, behavioral assays, and molecular biology experiments.
• At least one year of experience with safety compliance, including maintaining a chemical inventory in the RSS system, assisting with training new students, and following BUAs, chemical SOPs, and other safety requirements.
• Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
• Ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Drive, and NIH ImageJ Software.
• Ability to perform microscopy, manipulate microorganisms, pipet, make solutions, and carry out molecular biology and other laboratory tasks at high capacity throughout the working day.
• Satisfactory completion of a background check, including a criminal records check, before an offer of employment.

Nice To Haves

• MS in Cell and Molecular Biology or Biochemistry.
• Research publication in biology or chemistry.

Responsibilities

• Conduct neuroscience experiments using C. elegans, including genetic crosses, microscopy, behavioral assays, and molecular biology experiments.
• Maintain safety compliance, including the chemical inventory in the RSS system, training new students, and compliance with BUAs, chemical SOPs, and other safety requirements.
• Order supplies and equipment as necessary.
• Assist student researchers as needed.
• Promote a respectful laboratory environment with equitable opportunities for all students.
• Help train research students.

Benefits

• Four company health insurance plans to choose from, with employee contributions varying by plan and coverage level.
• Employer-paid dental and vision insurance for employees and eligible dependents.
• Life, AD&D, and LTD coverage, with supplemental coverage opportunities.
• 14 paid federal and state holidays.
• 403(b) employee contribution plan and employer contribution component; employer contributions vest immediately.
• Vacation-hour accruals and separate sick-hour accumulations.
• Employee discounts.
• Paid training and professional-development conferences.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level