Plant Science Research Assistant Jobs in Decatur, GA

Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.

The Chahroudi laboratory in the Department of Pediatrics at the Emory University School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Lead Research Specialist to join their team. The majority of efforts will be dedicated to investigating HIV persistence and latency reversal. The goal of this work is to evaluate HIV cure strategies in a preclinical nonhuman primate model. The Chahroudi laboratory is located in the Health Science Research Building on the Emory Campus and consists of a dynamic team of post-doctoral fellows, graduate students, and research specialists, who all work collaboratively with veterinarians, research resources, and other core facility staff at the Emory National Biomedical Research Center.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Under minimal supervision, performs a variety of specialized and complex research and laboratory tests and procedures.
• Uses independent judgment in applying or adapting scientific techniques.
• May assist in protocol design.
• Investigates and proposes alternative experimental procedures for consideration by a principal investigator.
• Assists in planning and scheduling research procedures.
• Analyzes and interprets results of studies.
• Demonstrates and trains others in the proper use/operation of laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Calibrates, troubleshoots and performs routine repair and maintenance of equipment.
• Reviews literature for related research developments and techniques and compiles findings.
• Monitors laboratory processes to maintain quality assurance standards.
• Records results of studies, compiles and analyzes data and prepares charts and graphs.
• Monitors the handling, storage and disposal of hazardous substances.
• Performs related responsibilities as required.
• Employees in this classification may be required to work with, take specific precautions against and/or be immunized against potentially hazardous agents.

ADDITIONAL JOB DETAILS:

• The Lead Research Specialist will perform technical laboratory activities related to the processing, storage and analysis of human and nonhuman primate samples including whole blood, tissues, and other specimens.
• Involve performing and development of various immunologic, molecular biological and virologic assays under minimal supervision.
• This will include planning/scheduling of research procedures and data analysis/interpretation to further our understanding of the impact of the HIV cure strategies evaluated in nonhuman primates.
• Involved in general lab operations and will supervise/train other lab members.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific field and two years of research experience, or equivalent combination of experience, education, and training.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Interested candidates must have a bachelor's degree in a scientific field and at least two years of research experience OR equivalent combination of experience, education, and training.
• A background in the immunology and virology of HIV/SIV infection is ideal.
• Excellent oral and written communication and math skills are required as is the ability to work as part of a team.
• Also valued is a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to manage/maintain certain parts of the laboratory operations and develop/establish new protocols/procedures under minimal supervision.
• Experience working with sterile cell culture, molecular biological techniques and primary cell isolation techniques is preferred.
• The ideal candidate has experience in training others in the proper use/operation of laboratory equipment and techniques.
• Salary will be commensurate with experience and will follow the Emory guidelines.

NOTE: Position tasks are generally required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location.  Remote work from home day options may be granted at department discretion. Emory reserves the right to change remote work status with notice to employee.

Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).

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