The Stanford University Department of Genetics is seeking a Life Science Research Professional I to work in a multidisciplinary laboratory that uses genetic, molecular biological, physiological, biochemical, microscopic, and computational analyses to study multiple aspects of the molecular and cell biology of reef-building corals, the related sea anemones, and the symbiotic algal partners of these animals.  This project is motivated both by a desire to understand the fascinating and poorly understood basic biology of corals and anemones and by the desire to help save the world’s endangered coral reefs.  Some work is on actual corals in the laboratory and in the field, but the primary focus is on using the small sea anemone Aiptasia as a simpler laboratory model system in which the biology of the animal-algal symbiosis can be studied more effectively.  This position provides an opportunity for a motivated, reliable, organized, and disciplined person to support and participate in cutting-edge, multidisciplinary, basic research that also has significant implications for practical issues of conservation biology. 

The LSRP’s functions will include planning (in consultation with the Principal Investigator and postdoctoral fellows), conducting, and performing initial evaluation of independent experiments on predetermined topics.  The LSRP will also assist the postdoctoral fellows with other experiments.  The LSRP will also supervise and perform much of the husbandry (including spawning) of the lab’s sea anemone cultures (including cleaning and disinfecting aquarium tanks, autoclaving labware, and making batches of artificial seawater) and manage and assist with other general laboratory operations.

Duties include:

• Plan and perform experiments in support of research projects in the laboratory and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory.  Maintain detailed records of the experiments and outcomes.  Perform basic analyses and initial interpretation of results. 
• Review literature and attend journal clubs and lab meetings on a regular basis to remain current with new procedures and related research.
• Offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in consultation with the Principal Investigator and postdoctoral researchers.
• Maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Contribute to publication of findings as needed.  Participate in the preparation of written documents, including laboratory protocols, presentations, and proposals. 
• Help to supervise and perform general lab maintenance; maintain laboratory stocks, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
• Assist the Principal Investigator and postdoctoral researchers in providing animals, algal cultures, and protocols to researchers at other institutions.
• Help to orient and train new staff or students including various types of research interns.

*- Other duties may also be assigned.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in biology, marine science, or a closely related field.  Extensive familiarity with marine organisms AND with aquarium maintenance.
Prior experience in working in a laboratory setting and following and adapting lab procedures. 

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• General 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.
• 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.

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:

None.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp forcefully, and lift, carry, push, and pull objects weighing up to 40 pounds (or more) on hard surfaces.  Grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, and write by hand.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
• Occasionally climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
• Such activities may be repetitive and continued up to the duration of an 8-hour workday.
• Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.

*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Requires work in an environment where animals (invertebrates only) are used for teaching and research.
• Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials are present.
• Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.

The expected pay range for this position is $53,000 to $76,000 per annum. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards ) provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

WORK STANDARDS (from JDL):

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned.
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu .