Aquatic Specialist V (Research) - Charles River Laboratories, Bethesda, MD

Come join our amazing team in Bethesda, MD at the Unit on Neuronal Cell Biology that pursues studies related to the cellular mechanisms of nervous system development, maintenance and function. Currently the interest is centered on the role of retrograde axonal transport of proteins and organelles in the formation and maintenance of sensory and motor axons. A variety of techniques are used including molecular and cellular biology, genetics, microscopy, and proteomics in zebrafish and cultured cells.

Responsibilities:

Assist post-docs and collaborators with research projects. Teach post-doc zebrafish reproductive physiology and care. Assist with all aspects of zebrafish related experimental design, including drafting SOPs and protocols for zebrafish related tasks and the use of the confocal microscope; statistical analysis of data; generation of publication quality images, graphs and figures. Assist with genetic mapping of identified mutants (obtain embryo, prepare DNA, perform PCR-based marker analysis).

Conduct independent research projects as directed by Principle Investigator. Provide colony management support in multiple facilities. Maintain accurate detailed records utilizing written log sheets and computer databases regarding colony, including animal breeding, health, and housing/isolator or support areas as required by Institute, facility, and/or Task officials and investigators. Manage a large scale mutagenesis screen, including generating fish lines, conducting relevant complementation testing and map-crossing and managing screen related data. Schedule screen related tasks to screen participants. Perform technical procedures related to Aquatic species (e.g. obtaining blood and other samples, obtain zebrafish sperm for cryopreservation and in vitro fertilization, facilitate animal breeding and embryo collection, and perform prescribed Veterinary treatments). Perform tissue preparation and fixation for electron microscopy. Scanning zebrafish genome for genes, mutations and viral insertions using a variety of online database. Technical and bench top duties including embryo cleaning, staging and fixation; tumor removal and imaging; mutant and transgenic identification and propagation; injection of DNA and RNA into zebrafish embryos; DNA sampling and preparation of zebrafish embryos and adults. Help screen for specific mutants.

Maintain effective lines of communication with investigator regarding colony and support duties. Actively interact with customers as required to solve customer requests, inquiries, and complaints and to provide technical assistance when applicable to job description. Manage international and domestic shipment of zebrafish embryos and adults following Federal and NIH guidelines Troubleshoot aquatic support equipment and provides input and action on cause and remedy.

Requirements:

B.S. in Biological Sciences required. Minimum four years of experience working with aquatic species in a research environment required. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute for the specific education and experiences listed. AALAS certification at the LATG level required.

This position offers a wide range of benefits and a very competitive salary.

Now that you’ve reviewed this amazing opportunity; if you qualify, then take that next step and apply online at http://www.criver.com Job ID 170964.

Charles River Laboratories, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disabled/Vet