Research Associate - Anesthesia, Obal's Lab

University of Iowa•Iowa City, IA

About The Position

The Department of Anesthesia is seeking a full-time Research Associate to participate in a cardiovascular research project. The research primarily utilizes patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes to model cardiac disorders. The successful candidate must have experience in human cell culture techniques, genomic and protein expression molecular techniques with an excellent record keeping ability and organization skills. Prior experience with induced pluripotent stem cell research is highly desired, but not a requirement. A minimal part of the project will include animal experiments and prior experience working with mice is desired. The candidate must exhibit a great deal of independence and be able to independently design experiments, carry them out and assist with analyzing and presenting data. Position Responsibilities: • Induced pluripotent stem cell reprogramming and culture. • Cardiomyocyte and endothelial differentiation experiments using human iPSCs. • Perform cardiomyocyte and endothelial cell phenotype and molecular evaluation protocols. • Subcutaneous injection of drugs in pregnant mice. • Plan and perform existing experiments in support of ongoing research projects based on extensive knowledge of scientific theory. Interpret and perform analyses of results and their possible implications. • Discuss issues and considerations for using different types of research approaches. • Analyze and interpret literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and related research, interpret new findings and analyze their validity. • Demonstrate in depth knowledge of and offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols. Advise on advanced research analysis methods. • Maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes. • Design, write, and publish findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals. Edit and revise as needed. • Coordinate and evaluate general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and coordinate lab support when required. • Other duties as assigned. Position and Application Details: In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a “Relevant File” to the submission: • Resume/CV • Cover Letter For a full job description, please send an e-mail to the contact listed below. About The Department of Anesthesia: The Department of Anesthesia provides exceptional patient experiences and a positive work environment through excellence, compassionate care, continuous improvement, innovative research, and collaborative learning.

Requirements

One year of related experience is required.
Extensive understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes. Edit and revise as needed.
General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

Nice To Haves

A Bachelor of Science in molecular biology or related discipline or equivalent experience
Two year’s experience
Technical writing experience in SOP’s, protocols, and reports
Proficiency with human cell culture techniques, experience with iPSC is highly valued
Experience with laboratory animal experiments, in particular, s.c. injection of drugs
Experience with tissue homogenization and single cell preparation from various tissues, primarily cardiomyocytes
Proficiency with basic molecular biology techniques, such as gel electrophoresis, PCR, and recombinant DNA techniques
Routinely perform cardiomyocyte and endothelial cell differentiation experiments using human iPSCs
Possess initiative, ability to multi-task and a desire to acquire new technical skills
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Ability to communicate effectively with team members and collaborators
Experimental design, execution of plan and presentation of data to team
Utilization of good documentation practices

Responsibilities

Induced pluripotent stem cell reprogramming and culture.
Cardiomyocyte and endothelial differentiation experiments using human iPSCs.
Perform cardiomyocyte and endothelial cell phenotype and molecular evaluation protocols.
Subcutaneous injection of drugs in pregnant mice.
Plan and perform existing experiments in support of ongoing research projects based on extensive knowledge of scientific theory. Interpret and perform analyses of results and their possible implications.
Discuss issues and considerations for using different types of research approaches.
Analyze and interpret literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and related research, interpret new findings and analyze their validity.
Demonstrate in depth knowledge of and offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols. Advise on advanced research analysis methods.
Maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
Design, write, and publish findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals. Edit and revise as needed.
Coordinate and evaluate general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and coordinate lab support when required.
Other duties as assigned.