The Ibberson lab (www.ibbersonlab.com) in the Department of Microbiology and Plant Biology of the University of Oklahoma studies bacterial physiology and how microbes interact in chronic human infection, in particular cystic fibrosis and chronic wounds. We are currently seeking a Research Assistant to join the team. This position will work under general supervision to plan and carry out research projects in accordance with the general plans of the laboratory. In addition, this position will provide support to the lab, including inventory and maintenance of equipment. Training will be provided in microbiology culture, animal studies, cutting-edge sequencing approaches, and computational techniques, as necessary.

Duties

 Required attachments: Cover letter, resume, three professional references

Required Education: Bachelor's Degree in a Biological Science, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, Sociology, or other health related field. 

Equivalency/Substitution: Will accept 48 months equivalent experience in lieu of the Bachelor's Degree.

Skills:

• Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, chemistry, or related discipline
• Ability to rely on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform job functions
• Ability to perform basic laboratory assays. Training will be provided in specific techniques as necessary.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Excel and GraphPad Prism is preferred. Bioinformatic experience is a plus.
• Molecular biology experience and proficiency is preferred, particularly experience with genetic manipulation of bacteria
• Ability to ensure laboratory safety; follow and enforce any regulatory guidelines and protocols related to laboratory safety. The employee will work mostly in Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) facilities and will use infectious materials and general chemicals
• Must be able to maintain meticulous, complete, and easily retrievable laboratory data
• Must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self starter. Ability to meet consistent attendance. Willing and interest in learning new techniques and approaches
• Strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize, and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and follow-through
• Excellent communication skills; ability to maintain effective working relationships and address the potential and current needs of the laboratory. Ability to work effectively independently but also collaboratively within a team. Ability to interact face to face with colleagues and supervisors
• Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate sound judgement and good decision-making
• Must demonstrate compassion for animals within animal care facilities. Must handle animals with care and respect at all    times. Must demonstrate compliance with all university animal research and care policies (IACUC) and compliance to  regulations of the Animal Welfare Act, Public Health Service Policy, AAALAC guidelines and all other applicable regulatory guidelines.

Certifications:

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  None
  

Advertised Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to pull, push, reach, stand, grasp, walk, feel, touch & communicate. Must be able to handle exposure to odors; ability to handle items such as autoclave buckets, stock solution s, etc.

Department Preferences:

• 1-3 years of research experience is strongly preferred

Supervision: None

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy.  To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing .

Diversity Statement: The University of Oklahoma is committed to achieving a diverse, equitable, and inclusive university community by recognizing each person's unique contributions, background, and perspectives. The University of Oklahoma strives to cultivate a sense of belonging and emotional support for all, recognizing that fostering an inclusive environment for all is vital in the pursuit of academic and inclusive excellence in all aspects of our institutional mission.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.