Senior Research Assistant Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

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 Santangelo laboratory in the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Emory University, within the School of Medicine and Emory Vaccine Center is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented research technician to synthesize, test, and catalog lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). Using industry-standard formulation techniques, our lab encapsulates milligrams of high-quality synthetic mRNA to enable impactful therapeutic experiments (ACS Nano, Beyersdorf et al. 2022). The laboratory is outfitted with state-of-the-art testing equipment to produce and analyze formulated LNPs. We are expanding the ability of the laboratory to formulate multiple constructs simultaneously at higher scales, enabling advanced therapeutic experiments. Emory University offers a highly collaborative work environment with strong research and career development opportunities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Independently performs a wide range of highly technical and complex research and laboratory tests and procedures.
• Devises highly specialized research procedures by applying a knowledge of advanced research techniques and equipment.
• Provides input to protocol development.
• Serves as a technical resource for other research personnel.
• Analyzes and interprets the results of studies.
• Investigates and recommends alternative approaches to improve the quality of results.
• Trains research staff in specialized procedures and theoretical concepts for unique tests.
• Recommends new equipment and supplies needed for specialized procedures.
• Provides input into the development of departmental goals and objectives.
• May assist in grant and other funding application preparation.
• Review literature for related research developments and techniques.
• Prepares written materials, charts and graphs on specialized techniques and research results for publication or presentation.
• Oversees quality assurance of research performed by others.
• 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 RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Formulates LNPs using industry standard techniques and equipment
• Analyses LNPs for size, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency using DLS and RNA content methods
• Works with scientist to further develop LNP formulation protocols 
• Prepares detailed quality summaries
• Documents LNP production and testing details and reports to supervisor
• Prepares shipments of reagents to both domestic and international partners

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

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

NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this 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).

Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.