Technical Assoc II (S)

GENERAL PURPOSE:

Provides direct research support at a professional level in a large Neuroscience laboratory. Takes charge of a segment of research activities of moderate complexity. Responsible for conducting and analyzing experiments that comprise a coherent part of a larger project; and researching and resolving technical problems within the scope of those experiments.

TYPICAL ASSIGNMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under general guidance and with latitude for exercising independent technical judgment, performs a range of molecular biology-based procedures as well as contributing to the general organization and maintenance of a large neuroscience laboratory. Responsibilities include the following:

Works independently with only occasional suggestions in modifying, varying or adapting standard procedures in experiments related to culture of the primary neural cells, Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and Magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) analysis and sorting to meet the specific needs of lab research projects. 25%

Prepares cells from human and rodent brain tissues and cultured cells for Flow Cytometer and FACS. Runs BD FACSAria III cell sorter for experiments related to human or rodent neural progenitor cells and their progeny populations under supervision during the initial training period and independently operates and maintains the instrument after training. Operates the FACSAria III for other lab members and performs their flow cytometry and FACS. Evaluates the performance of research instruments and makes and / or recommends correctional design changes or develops new approaches for its use.

Trains laboratory staff. Specifically, ensures that all students in experimental group are trained in appropriate and safe cell culture procedures. Advises students on technical problems with their projects and assists them in the preparation of reports. Insures that health and safety practices are maintained in accordance with University policy and regulations. Maintains contact with outside research laboratories, vendors and technical representatives concerning the research. Orients visitors and onboards students and other lab staff to the laboratory.

Performs RNA isolation of human and mouse samples, cDNA synthesis and qPCR to assess sorted cell populations. Anayzes and evaluates experimental data and interprets results, assesses the importance of findings, prepares written reports on the research. May assist in writing of the principal project report and in the writing of articles for publication.

Develops and modifies operating procedures and trains and works with staff to ensure compliance with university and federal laboratory safety regulations. May assist faculty researchers in the preparation of research proposals.

Keeps abreast of trends in the field, studies current research literature, searches literature for references to technical problems involved in research projects; develops and writes technical protocols; performs standard statistical analyses of data; and contributes to the preparation of materials for publication. Presents and report research progress in weekly lab meeting.

Other projects and duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in a biological discipline and 2+ years of experience in laboratory research in field of assignment. Master’s degree preferred or an equivalent combination of experience, training and education.

• Experience with flow cytometry and FACS is highly desirable, as is a good understanding of cell and molecular biology and hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture, RNA isolation or qPCR.

• Experience on primary neural cell culture is a plus.

• Must be self-motivated and capable of working both independently and in a collaborative setting.

• Strong written and oral communication skills with the ability to readily learn new experimental techniques.

• Strong analytical, communication, organizational and computer skills.

How To Apply

All applicants must apply online.

EOE Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled

Pay Range

Pay Range: $ 53,500 - $ 74,900 Annually

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job’s compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

Location: School of Medicine & Dentistry
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Opening: Full Time 40 hours Grade 052