Research Associate - Varma Lab

Miami University Alumni Association•Oxford, AL

About The Position

The Varma Lab in the Department of Biology at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, seeks a Research Associate to join a new research program investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying rare neurodevelopmental disorders. Our laboratory uses patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to generate brain organoids that recapitulate key aspects of human brain development. We combine these models with molecular and cellular approaches coupled with single-cell transcriptomic profiling and bioinformatic analysis to understand how disease associated genetic variants perturb developmental gene regulatory programs, alter the specification and maturation of distinct neural cell populations, and ultimately affect neuronal function. The successful candidate will contribute to projects investigating the mechanisms of rare neurodevelopmental disorders and will have the opportunity to play an important role in establishing and developing the Varma Lab. The position is well suited for someone interested in human stem cell models, neurodevelopment, and disease mechanisms who would like to contribute both experimentally and intellectually to a growing research program.

Requirements

M.S. in biology, neuroscience, molecular and cellular biology, or a related discipline
At least 3-5 years of research experience in iPSC culture
Excellent organizational, written and oral communication skills.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research laboratory.

Nice To Haves

Human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) culture
Neural differentiation, neuronal culture, and/or brain organoid culture
Molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA isolation, PCR/qPCR, Western blotting, and related approaches
Immunocytochemistry and microscopy
Training or mentoring undergraduate researchers
Prior experience with human iPSC culture is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Contribute to experimental design, data collection and analysis, interpretation of results, and preparation of research findings for presentation and publication.
Assist with establishing and maintaining the Varma Lab.
Participate in laboratory meetings and collaborative research activities and contribute to the presentation of research findings at scientific conferences and preparation of manuscripts for publication.
Assist with training and mentoring undergraduate and graduate researchers in the laboratory, including laboratory techniques, experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.