Biology Technician - Department of Ophthalmology

The Department of Ophthalmology at West Virginia University Research Corporation is currently accepting applications for a Biology Technician.

About the Opportunity

This position will assist Dr. Ezequiel Salido, an assistant professor in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. The laboratory is also part of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine at the Health Science Center, WVU. Our laboratory is located at the Erma Byrd Biomedical Research Center building.

The research at Salido Lab focuses on understanding the synthesis and functions of the neuronal extracellular matrix (ECM). Specifically, the lab examines the ECM surrounding the photoreceptors in the retina and its involvement in various vision-related diseases. The lab conducts experiments using Crips-cas9 animal models with mutations on ECM genes associated with human diseases. Our routine experiments include Immunohistochemistry, western blot, PCR, electroretinogram, non-invasive in-vivo imaging of the mice retina, electron microscopy, super-resolution microscopy, protein expression in mice and cell culture, AAV-based gene therapy, and multi-omics techniques. We also use biochemistry techniques to study protein interactions and post-translational modifications. For more details about Salido Lab research, please visit our lab webpage (https://salidolab.com/).

The newly hired person will join a team of vision researchers working to uncover the causes of blindness and use that information to develop innovative treatments for vision loss in humans. You will actively participate in the ongoing lab research, providing you with a unique opportunity for growth and learning in the field of vision research.

At WVU Research Corporation, we strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU Research Corporation offers a comprehensive benefits package with a variety of options to suit your needs:

• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• Paid Time off (PTO)
• 403(b) retirement savings with a fully vested 3% employee contribution match, (Employees have the option of contributing an additional 1-3% of their earnings to the plan, which is also matched by the WVURC)
• A range of health insurance and other benefits
• Dependent Education Scholarship
• WVU Perks

What You'll Do

• Maintain lab organization, including ordering and stocking chemicals and maintaining inventories.
• Set up, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues.
• Prepare reagents and assist in experiments as needed.
• Maintain and genotype mice colonies (by PCR and sequencing).
• Dissect of ocular tissues for experimentation.
• Western Blot protein analysis.
• Immunohistochemistry on cryosectioned retina and confocal microscopy.
• Performing electroretinography analysis on anesthetized mice.
• Bacteria and human cell culture and protein expression.
• Spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in mice
• Alternative Experiments:
  • Intraocular injections for gene therapy studies
  • Electron microscopy / Immunoelectromicroscopy
  • Super-resolution microscopy (STORM)
  • Document and analyze research data.
  • Effective and clear communication of research findings with the team is crucial.
  • Engage in collaborative and independent work within the research team.
  
  

• Bachelor degree in life sciences
• A minimum of six (6) months experience in the following:
  • Working in a research laboratory
  • Undergraduate research/laboratory experience acceptable.
  • Relevant experience in biological research laboratory settings is preferred.
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered
• All qualifications much be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Core Competencies and Professional Conduct Requirements
  • Strong capabilities in verbal and written communication, alongside excellent time management and organizational skills. Self-motivation is essential for success in this role.
  • Solid background in general molecular biology techniques, essential for daily laboratory tasks.
  • Ability to operate general laboratory equipment (i.e., pH meter, scales, pipets, centrifuges, etc.) and the willingness and ability to learn new techniques, procedures, or protocols.
  • Commitment to continuous learning and skill enhancement, actively seeking training and development opportunities.
  • Efficient at gathering and analyzing information to identify and resolve problems.
  • Responsive to management direction, adheres to work schedules, and manages leave responsibly, ensuring consistent productivity and team coherence.
• Team Collaboration and Workplace Culture:
  • Positive Lab Environment: We are committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive lab environment where all team members are valued and respected. A good lab mate is someone who contributes positively to the communal lab culture, offering help and encouragement to colleagues.
  • Nondiscrimination and Inclusion: Our lab is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace. We firmly oppose any form of discrimination based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, or disability. Respect and fairness are expected of all team members in every interaction within the lab.
  • Teamwork: Effective teamwork is the cornerstone of our success. We seek individuals who thrive in team settings and are adept at working collaboratively on complex projects. The ability to openly share knowledge, discuss ideas, and adapt to group needs is crucial.
  • Passion for Science: We value curiosity and enthusiasm for scientific discovery. Candidates should possess a genuine interest in vision research and a drive to contribute to groundbreaking work that can significantly impact the field and improve patient outcomes.

The WVURC was created as a not-for-profit corporation in 1985 to support research (R1) at West Virginia University. We provide evaluation, development, patenting, management, and marketing services for inventions of the faculty, staff and students of the University.

The WVURC receives and administers funds awarded by external agencies for research and other activities and is responsible for helping protect intellectual property through patents, copyrights and licensing agreements for start-up companies based on University research.

West Virginia University Research Corporation is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. We value diversity among its employees and invites applications from all qualified applicants regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, nationality, genetics, disability, or Veteran status.