What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Assistant (Cell Biology Lab) - Dept of Ortho and Rehab position at The University of Iowa?
The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation is seeking a Research Assistant to contribute to the success of the Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation’s Cell and Developmental Biology Lab by supporting research faculty members and conducting research relating to cell and developmental biology of bone and skeletal muscle and regenerative medicine. The PI for the position will be Dr. Hongshuai Li (https://medicine.uiowa.edu/orthopedics/profile/hongshuai-li).
Duties to include:
Read and review articles as directed. As individual skills develop, analyze literature to develop hypothesis for discussion with other researchers or principal investigator.
Read and understand protocols. As individual skills develop, troubleshoot, and analyze protocols; propose modifications to other researchers or principal investigator.
Arrange and plan daily activities to prepare for research protocols. As individual skills develop, perform complex techniques as outlined in research protocols and test and evaluate current procedures.
Record and consolidate data as directed by Principal Investigator (PI). Track progress/success of research project.
May present results at research meetings.
Develop and monitor quality controls.
Collect, track, and perform data entry for reports. Prepare materials for reports. As skills develop, analyze data. Prepare bibliographies and abstracts for publications.
Performing general molecular, biochemical and cell biological techniques including cell culture, isolation of RNA, DNA and protein from cell and tissue samples, and carrying out PCR, Western blot analyses.
Performing routine animal husbandry techniques including, but not limited to weaning, setting up mating pairs, genotyping, and assisting with surgical procedures in mice.
Assisting with routine lab organization, general maintenance, and upkeeping, including preparation of buffers and media, autoclaving, and dishwashing.
Performing basic research literature searches as requested and needed. Adapting and performing protocols from the literature.
Identifying and adhering to Quality Assurance Practices to maintain validity and integrity of research data. Will be encouraged to design and applying new methods/theories as needed.
Assisting in preparing publications and presentations. Contributing to the technical writing of papers, manuscripts, grant applications and published materials as evidenced by documented recognition.
Providing basic training on techniques and protocols for other lab members when needed.
Performing work in a self-motivated, well-organized manner while effectively communicate with PI and other lab members.
This position may supervise student research assistants.
Percent of Time: 100%
Benefits Highlights:
Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans
For more information about Why Iowa?, click here
The University of Iowa offers a generous benefits package, including 24 days paid vacation per year to start and paid sick leave. Complete information regarding the full benefits package may be viewed at: https://hr.uiowa.edu/benefits/fpsm.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or other relevant field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- 1-3 years of lab-based research experience.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills including the ability to communicate concepts and ideas in written, verbal, and presentation settings internally and externally.
- Attention to detail, ability to multi-task, able to organize priorities, work independently to meet deadlines, and work well within a cohesive team.
Desirable Qualifications
- Working knowledge of University policies, procedures, and regulations.
- Working knowledge of human physiology/anatomy, orthopedics, or pharmacology.
Application Process: In order to be considered, applicants must upload resume or CV (under submission relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
For additional questions, please contact Mike Lucas, HR Coordinator, michael-lucas-1@uiowa.edu
