Research Assistant I , Department of Biology - West Virginia University

The Department of Biology with Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University is seeking applicants for a Research Assistant I. The position will support research in the Department of Biology (Horstick lab 75%, Bergeron lab 25%), with a focus on developmental and sensorimotor neurobiology using zebrafish. The incumbent will spend approximately 66% of their time performing support and maintenance to the Horstick and Bergeron labs' zebrafish colonies and systems, approximately 600 tanks, requiring some care over weekends and university holidays. In addition, the incumbent will spend approximately 33% of their time performing behavior assays, molecular biology techniques and imaging. The incumbent serves as a project coordinator. Intermediate technical and conceptual knowledge, as well as analytical skills, are required to successfully perform duties. The incumbent must independently use field-specific concepts and follow organizational procedures to solve moderate to complex problems. Work effort often addresses optimizing established protocols and potentially establishing new protocols, as well as supervising personnel assisting in the overall project. Finally, regular communication with the principal investigator should provide detail as to the progress of the project and next steps. Immediate start date preferred.


In order to be successful in this role, the ideal candidate will:

  • Provide daily care and maintenance of zebrafish colony and aquatics facilities (requires maintaining detailed records, inspection of animals and equipment, equipment calibration, daily cleaning, preparation of stock solutions, maintenance of rotifer colony, daily feeding and life support, regular water quality testing, and fin biopsies)
  • Respond to fish facility emergencies
  • Carry out behavioral experiments in compliance with all safety protocols. This also may include troubleshooting and optimizing assays based on literature
  • Attend weekly meetings discussing progress with supervisor and biweekly lab meetings to discuss ongoing projects in the lab.
  • Perform laboratory experiment and animal/equipment care activities according to protocol. This includes independent experimental data analysis, maintaining detailed logs of work-related activities, including accurate laboratory records, and data on research methods, procedures, and results. Summaries of experimental outcomes and recommended future steps are also expected.
  • Coordinate and train undergraduate students and new trainees performing related or contributing research and animal care.
  • Stay current on best practices for experiments and zebrafish care as outlined by federal and university animal husbandry rules and guidelines

 Pay Grade: 15


 

Qualifications

 

  • Bachelor’s in Biology, Neuroscience or a related field is required. 
  • Six (6) months experience with:
    • Working in a biology laboratory
    • Analyzing data preferred
    • Working in the area of molecular biology and neuroscience preferred


Requirements 

  • Resume
  • Cover letter


Please go to the following link to apply:

https://wvu.taleo.net/careersection/staff/jobdetail.ftl?job=12831&tz=GMT-04%3A00&tzname=America%2FNew_York

 

About WVU 

At West Virginia University, we pride ourselves on a tireless endeavor for achievement. We are home to some of the most passionate, innovative minds in the country who push their limits for the sake of progress, constantly moving the world forward. Our students, faculty and staff make this institution one of the best out there, and we are proud to stand as one voice, one university, one WVU. Find out more about your opportunities as a Mountaineer at https://talentandculture.wvu.edu/.


West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and the recipient of an NSF ADVANCE award for gender equity. The University values diversity among its faculty, staff and students, and invites applications from all qualified individuals, including minorities, females, individuals with disabilities and veterans.