DESCRIPTION

The Villa lab is at the forefront of structural elucidation of macromolecular assemblies within their native biological context. Our group members are curious, highly motivated, and collaborative individuals. The Staff Research Associate 1 will assist the Principal Investigator in conducting scientific research, performing administrative functions for the group, and ensuring the lab is abiding by Environmental Health & Safety standards. Within the research component, there is room for growth, dependent on the progression of the project.

Under supervision, the Staff Research Associate 1 will perform research including mammalian tissue culture experiments and various imaging experiments, including single cell injections into the nucleus of mammalian cells grown in tissue culture conditions. This work will be vital to an ongoing project coordinated by two postdoctoral fellows. Additional mammalian cell work will also include standard tissue culture cell maintenance, transfection of plasmid DNA, fluorescence imaging, etc. Additional research components include generating samples and reagents suitable for the lab's cryo-tomography workflow (culturing cells on grids and microfabrication of EM grids).

Additional functions include administrative tasks such as ordering reagents, maintaining an inventory, and ensuring that supplies are ordered in a timely manner. Finally, the incumbent will handle tasks related to EH&S, as ensuring the group is compliant with safety requirements is of the utmost importance.

• Must be able to be flexible with work hours and work occasional overtime during evenings or weekends as required by particular experiments.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical and practical knowledge of biology, molecular biology or biochemistry acquired through a BS degree or higher in Biology or related field; OR an equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience.

• Thorough knowledge and experimental ability to perform procedures used in a molecular biology research laboratory setting such as sterile technique, DNA and RNA preparation, protein purification, PCR amplification, bacterial transformation, Western blotting, cloning, bacterial growth and handling, plasmid preparation.

• Demonstrated experience working with antibodies and yeast.

• Proven experience with the operation of laboratory equipment, including centrifuges, ultracentrifuges, balances, and pH meters. Knowledge and skill working with sterile equipment and supplies.

• Demonstrated experience using fluorescent microscope (deconvolution and confocal).

• Solid skill with stoichiometric calculations, i.e. molarity, etc.

• Proven knowledge of specialized scientific terminology and ability to perform research under guidance. Ability to record scientific data in a well-organized laboratory notebook.

• Thorough knowledge of purchasing and reimbursement procedures. Skill in maintaining purchasing records, steady levels of lab supplies, and training others in purchasing procedures.

• Proficient experience using MAC computers and associated software, including FilemakerPro, MS Word, and Excel.

• Thorough knowledge of PubMed or library literature search to identify relevant research papers, journals and books

• Knowledge of Material Data Safety Sheets and hazardous communication and Injury and Illness Prevention programs. Knowledge of laboratory safety precautions, including use of protective items such as goggles, coats, etc., and the ability to train other laboratory members in safety precautions.

• Proven experience and knowledge of proper handling, storage and disposal of chemicals, radioisotopes, biochemicals, hazardous chemicals, and biohazardous materials, including radioactive materials.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability in using tact, diplomacy, discretion, and flexibility with diverse personalities and situation. Ability to work as part of a research team and interact effectively with collaborating labs and others in scientific commun