Graduate Research Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Department of Anesthesia is seeking a full-time Research Assistant to participate in a cardiovascular research project. The research primarily utilizes patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes to model cardiac disorders. The successful candidate must have experience in human cell culture techniques, genomic and protein expression molecular techniques with an excellent record keeping ability and organization skills. Prior experience with induced pluripotent stem cell research is highly desired, but not a requirement. A minimal part of the project will include animal experiments and prior experience working with mice is desired. The candidate must exhibit a great deal of independence and be able to independently design experiments, carry them out and assist with analyzing and presenting data.
Position Responsibilities:
• Research
o Induced pluripotent stem cell culture and maintenance.
o Cardiomyocyte, smooth muscle cell, and endothelial cell differentiation from human iPSCs.
o Perform cardiomyocyte, smooth cell, and endothelial cell phenotype and molecular evaluation protocols.
• Experiments, Investigations, Evaluations
o Read and understand existing experiments and protocols in support of ongoing research projects based on knowledge of scientific theory.
o Set up and operate research materials or equipment. Perform procedures assuring fidelity to protocols.
o Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines. Collect, record, and consolidate data as directed by the PI. Track the progress of research activities. Adhere to Quality Assurance protocols to maintain the validity and integrity of research data.
o Subcutaneous injection of drugs in pregnant mice.
o As individual skills develop: troubleshoot, analyze, and propose modifications to protocols; perform complex techniques per protocol; test and evaluate current procedures; develop and implement procedures for monitoring data integrity; and present results at lab meetings
• Collect, Analyze and Summarize Data; Prepare Reports; Contribute to Manuscripts, Publications
o Interpret and perform analyses of results with the help of postdocs, research staff, and PI.
o Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and related research.
o Offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols
o Maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes
o Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals
• Administrative and Project Management
o Assist with general lab maintenance as needed; assist with maintaining lab stock, assist with management of chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed
o Assist with IRB, IACUC, or similar protocol submission. Assist in documenting compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines
• Facilities and Equipment Management
o Assist in the preparation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory and facility equipment. Assist with the procurement of supplies and materials. May initiate purchasing requests, monitor accounts/expenditures, and reconcile statements.
• Supervision/Staffing
o As skills develop, may train, provide direction, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling of students and newer employees.
• Other duties as assigned
For a full job description, please send an e-mail to the contact listed below.
About The Department of Anesthesia:
The Department of Anesthesia provides exceptional patient experiences and a positive work environment through excellence, compassionate care, continuous improvement, innovative research, and collaborative learning.
Education Requirements:
• Bachelor's degree in related scientific field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Experience Requirements:
• General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.
Desired Qualifications:
• A Bachelor of Science in molecular biology or related discipline or equivalent experience
• Two year's experience
• Technical writing experience in SOP's, protocols, and reports
• Proficiency with human cell culture techniques, experience with iPSC is highly valued
• Experience with laboratory animal experiments, in particular, s.c. injection of drugs
• Experience with tissue homogenization and single cell preparation from various tissues, primarily cardiomyocytes
• Proficiency with basic molecular biology techniques, such as gel electrophoresis, PCR, and recombinant DNA techniques
• Routinely perform cardiomyocyte and endothelial cell differentiation experiments using human iPSCs
• Possess initiative, ability to multi-task and a desire to acquire new technical skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members and collaborators
• Experimental design, execution of plan and presentation of data to team
• Utilization of good documentation practices
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 for calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.
Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification.
This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.
Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
For additional questions, please contact Joseph Mulangaliro at joseph-mulangaliro@uiowa.edu.