Biological Scientist II

Classification Title:

Biological Scientist II – Molecular Biology

Job Description:

Research:

• Perform molecular cloning experiments to develop plasmids and viral vectors to manipulate genes in cells and rodents.

• Maintain cell cultures, freezing and thawing frozen cells appropriately (included but not limited to sterile handling of reagents and cell media, checking biological contaminations, and sterile work area).
• Conduct experiments to analyze mitochondrial function in cells, animal, and human tissue specimens

• Perform gene expression knockdown or genetic knockout experiments.
• Perform histological and immunofluorescent staining, imaging, and analysis of cultured cells and tissue specimens.
• Cultivate and maintain mammalian cell lines in controlled surroundings for study and observation and for use in experiments.
• Perform DNA, RNA, protein isolations from cells and tissues to analyzed gene expression, mutations, and protein levels.
• In consultation with the PI and breeding facility, maintain mouse colonies including establishment of new breeding and genotyping of mice.

• Modify existing protocols to improve existing techniques or to incorporate new procedures
• Conduct biological research in accordance with stipulated protocols and quality and safety standards.

• Consult with researchers and other professionals to conduct appropriate analyses, analyze problems, determine strategies, or recommend solutions.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records that record research methods, procedures, and results.
• Prepare and maintain research findings, summaries, logs, and notes.

Lab Management

• Responsible for managing daily operations of the laboratory. Advise and direct the development and implementation of policies and procedures in the lab. Establish standard operating procedures and protocols for sample preparation.
• Order and maintain laboratory supplies. Maintain proper records and detailed written sample preparation protocols.
• Provide maintenance and culturing of cell lines and mouse colonies. Perform routine maintenance on laboratory equipment; verify that equipment and instrumentation are maintained in working condition to ensure accuracy and quality of experimental results.
• Assist with the maintenance of laboratory safety programs and training personnel in laboratory safety techniques. Assist with preparation of Institutional Review Board (IRB) and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) protocols, applications, and reports.
• Provide input for technical reports, research papers, scholarly articles, and abstracts. Preparation of figures for presentations, publications, and/or grants.

Training

• Assist in teaching or instructing postdoctoral scholars and graduate students in methods or procedures or supervising their research. Assist in managing laboratory teams or directing the work of other scientists, technicians, and other workers.

This is a temporary TEAMS position, one-year appointment with possibility of extension based on meeting performance standards.

Expected Salary:

Commensurate with education and experience.

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelors degree in biology or a closely related field and three years of relevant experience; or a Masters degree in biology or a closely related field and one year of relevant experience; Doctoral degree in biology or a closely related field.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Four years of experience with genetic, molecular, and/or cell biology research techniques in a research or clinical laboratory.

• Doctoral degree in biology, molecular biology, or biochemistry;
• Strong experimental background with evidence of experimental skills related to cell and molecular biology;
• Experience in culture of mammalian cells, DNA/RNA extractions, polymerase chain reaction, rtPCR, and electrophoresis
• Experience in molecular cloning and development of plasmids and viral vectors for gene editing;
• Experience in writing and adhering to procedures and protocols is critical;
• Positive attitude to work with a track record of working well with other lab members and performing all work in a safe manner.

• The ability to work independently, analyze and present data, multitask, and maintain close communication with the Principal Investigator
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

In order to be considered, you must submit a cover letter, resume and list of at three professional references.

This is a time-limited position, one-year appointment with possibility of extension based on meeting performance standards.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Health Assessment Required: Yes