POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working with a high degree of independence and under general direction, coordinate major activities in medical and related technical areas. The Research Assistant 4 will coordinate major activities related to Alzheimer’s disease and prion research. Develop new methods for amplification and assay protocols for human prions and other prion-like proteins and assist with the preparation of R01 level NIH grants and scientific publications. With minimal feedback from the PI, the Research Assistant will optimize and implement new protocols and standard operating procedures for various novel assays used in Alzheimer’s disease research, keep and update general lab regulations, safety manuals, training records of other employees, and chemical and instrument inventories. Keep the PI informed of the progress in research projects and provide recommendations for an experimental design. And present data and findings at laboratory and scientific meetings, seminars, prepare manuscripts, and contribute preliminary data for grant proposals.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Provide input and recommendation to principal investigator regarding significant developments in research projects. Review and analyze emerging scientific literature related to prion diseases and neurodegenerative disease's research; Attend team meetings to present and discuss findings, share insights, and make recommendations; Work closely with the principal investigator, providing feedback on experimental results and suggesting adjustments or new avenues of exploration. (15%) Coordinate major activities of laboratory/ research. Plan and execute experiments for research projects designed by the principal investigator and may design experiments independently and in collaboration with the principal investigator. Assist with and coordinate experiments performed by other lab members, ensuring adequate resources, assisting with experimental design and analysis. Oversee progress of research projects and provide regular progress reports to the principal investigator; and coordinate major laboratory research activities and day-to day operations between the staff and research groups at the university, and external and international collaborators. (16%) Co-author research projects. Present data and findings at laboratory meetings and scientific meetings and seminars. Co-author research projects and assist with the preparation and submission of grants and scientific publications. (10%) Perform the most complex quantitative analytical procedures. Develop, perform, and evaluate data obtained with complex quantitative analytical procedures used for detection and differentiation of human prions and prion-like proteins, including hydroxylation footprinting, conformation-dependent immunoassay and conformational stability assays using Europium-labeled monoclonal antibodies. (12%) Teach or instruct others in research techniques. Mentor and train new technicians and postdoctoral scholars in biosafety and advanced analytical techniques such as time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy and circular dichroism spectroscopy, and how to use new research techniques in prion and Alzheimer’s research. (25%) Assist in developing procedures, coordinate information with others as needed. Assess, update, and develop new standard operating procedures for the lab, and coordinate the data storage and flow with others as needed. (10%) Keep and update general lab regulations, safety manuals, training records of other employees, and chemical and instrument inventories. (10%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCITONS
May supervise research assistants and technical work performed by other lab members, ensure proper lab procedures are followed, their safety, and ensure adequate resources are provided for lab work. (<1%) Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)
CONTACTS
Department: Daily contact with supervisor to discuss research and maintain workflow.
University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.
External: Limited or no contact with vendors to exchange information.
Students: Contact with student employees to exchange information.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
May supervise research assistants and technicians.
QUALIFICAITONS
Experience: 5 to 8 years of related experience required.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in science.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within the field of protein chemistry. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Ability to operate general equipment in the protein chemistry laboratory, including ultracentrifuges, time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy, and circular dichroism spectroscopy. Ability to meet consistent attendance. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face. Excellent analytical skills; ability to formulate findings and recommendations from the analysis. Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills; must demonstrate the ability to effectively and professionally communicate and work with various individuals within and external to the university.
WORKING CONDITIONS
General laboratory environment and Biosafety level 2 standards May have exposure to hazards like chemicals, bloodborne pathogens, repetitive motion, fumes, dust, pesticides/herbicides, and select agents. As part of the role, the employee will be equipped with essential safety gear including protective eyewear, lab coats, and suitable gloves. The role demands certain physical capabilities such as balancing, stooping, stair climbing, crawling, crouching, ladder climbing, kneeling, typing, pushing and pulling, reaching (including above shoulder level), performing repetitive motions, squatting, and using a computer mouse.
