POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under general supervision, the Senior Research Assistant 1 will carry out basic and preclinical research that endeavors to further delineate virus and host mechanisms that could be exploited to purge persistent reservoirs of HIV in people with HIV (PWH) on lifelong antiretroviral therapy, according to specific instructions. The senior research assistant will perform viral reactivation experiments in an ex vivo primary cell model of HIV latency as well as using T cells isolated from PWH. These experiments will largely entail utilization of immunofluorescence flow cytometry, high resolution microscopic imaging and RT-qPCR assays. The senior research assistant will also support students in their assigned research projects by providing isolated primary cell samples and guidance through the utilization of conventional laboratory techniques.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
-
Carry out experiments according to specific instructions using molecular biology technologies, viral and bacterial cultivation and basic bioinformatics. Assist with planning experiments. Assist in the routine preparation of latently infected primary CD4+ T cells carrying non-infectious HIV and further improvement of this procedure. PBMC isolation from peripheral blood samples, CD4+ T cell isolation and culture. Perform immunofluorescence flow cytometry and microscopy (45%)
-
Collaborate with lab staff and principal investigator to conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project, including performing highly reproducible RT-qPCR analysis of PWH samples with detailed record keeping. May conduct specific experiments and tasks independently. (15%)
-
Organize samples and analyze data in order to contribute to larger projects. Prepare figures following data collection and analysis while assisting in writing related to experiments performed. Provide interpretation of data and suggest potential improvements to techniques and procedures. (10%)
-
Participate in lab meetings and read applicable literature. (10%)
-
Maintain general lab environment and/or facilities, including, but not limited to, equipment maintenance and scheduling repairs, organization and cleanliness of the lab. Maintain and ensure compliance with biosafety and laboratory regulations. Manage supplies of the lab, including inventory and submitting orders as requested. (15%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCITONS
-
May assist in training new staff and students on lab operations and maintenance; direct the work of students. Support students in their assigned research projects through training and provision of isolated primary cell samples. (5%)
-
Perform other duties as assigned such as liaising with sales representatives and field application scientists to learn about new lab products and services. (<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 RESPONSIBILITY
This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. Train new staff; direct the work of students.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience: Bachelor of science degree and 6 months of related experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 1 year of experience required.
REQUIRED SKILLS
-
Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, laboratory equipment, practices and procedures within the field of molecular biology and microbiology.
-
Experience in molecular biology techniques, excellent aseptic technique and general skills common to a microbiology lab are a must.
-
Strong documentation and organization skills with the ability to keep accurate records of all work performed.
-
Good analytical, statistical and presentation skills.
-
Proficient computer skills, particularly in the use of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and graphing software such as Origin or Prism.
-
Ability to meet consistent attendance in person.
-
Ability to interact with colleagues and the supervisor face to face.
-
Ability to demonstrate successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
-
Willingness to learn and work with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
-
Demonstrated willingness to learn new techniques with instruction.
-
Willingness to work in a biosafety level 2+ setting.
-
Relies on instruction and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job,
-
Ability to operate laboratory equipment such as thermocylers, flow cytometer, UV/vis spectrophotometers, pH meter and autoclave.
WORKING CONDITIONS
General laboratory environment. May have exposure to chemical and biological hazards. Some of the work involving the handling and culture of cells obtained from virally suppressed PWH will be carried out in a biosafety level 2+ setting. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards.
