Research Associate - Zebrafish - UMass Medical School

Job Number: 2015-24839
Category: Research
Location:
Worcester, MA

Shift: Day
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Business Unit: SCHOOL
Department: School - Moledular Cell & Biology - W495000
Salary Grade: 40
Union Code: Non Union Position-W60-Non Unit Professional
Num. Openings: 1
Post Date: April 3, 2015

Overview:
GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION:

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator or Designee, the Research Associate performs a variety of complex research experiments. This Laboratory uses CRISPR/Cas9 tools for the development of gene therapy reagents and uses zebrafish as a model organism for two major projects:

1. Developing tools for gene inactivation and modification in vertebrate systems

2. Creating disease models of diabetes and atherosclerosis

In this role you will participate in the construction of Cas9 nuclease variants with increased precision. You will be responsible for the maintenance of mutant and transgenic zebrafish lines, Isolate and purify DNA from zebrafish embryos and adult finclips. You will also maintain the laboratory database and frozen archive of plasmids and bacterial strains, prepare competent bacterial cells for transformation and media reagents. As well as order standard supplies for the laboratory.



Responsibilities:


MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conducts in-depth analysis of research experiments

• Performs complex laboratory experiments

• Interprets data, forms conclusion, and decides on and plans next experiments to be done with a high degree of independence

• Compiles and analyzes data and performs computations using image analysis software, spreadsheets, graphing, and curve fitting software

• May modify protocols and be responsible for a single, independent research project

• Assists in writing the text of scientific publications and grants. Reviews literature

• Trains new laboratory personnel, students, and collaborators

• Maintains laboratory supplies and equipment

• Complies with all safety and infection control standards

• Perform other duties as required.


Qualifications:


REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, or equivalent experience

• 1 year relevant research experience

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products

• Strong ability to analyze complex visual data in a quantitative and objective manner

• Judgment and action skills required to solve commonly encountered problems

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Experience with zebrafish husbandry

2. Basic molecular biology techniques (PCR, Restriction Enzyme mediated cloning, Gel electrophoresis, Qiagen DNA miniprep)

3. Bacteria Strain preparation and handling (competent cell preparation and agar plate preparation)



SUPERVISION RECEIVED:
Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, or designee

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:
May functionally supervise Lab Technicians and Aides


ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
Wet chemistry laboratory, and may require appropriate contact with biohazards, radionuclides, toxins, animals, and human specimens

PLEASE SUBMIT A COVER LETTER WITH YOUR APPLICATION

Apply  Here: http://www.Click2Apply.net/d9qj3bh 

Additional Information:
UMass Medical School is committed to being an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and recognizes the power of a diverse community. We encourage applications from protected veterans, individuals with disabilities and those with varied experiences, perspectives and backgrounds to consider UMass Medical School as their employer of choice.