Research Assistant

Legacy Staffing has partnered with one of the #1 Research University's in the county and is seeking a full time Research Assistant

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision of the Principal Investigator, Clinical Research Operations Manager and Data Manager, the Research Assistant 2 will support and conduct testing for diagnostic mycology and in vitro susceptibility testing of outpatient and clinical trial samples. The position will also involve experimental work using in vitro and in vivo models of disease, as well as pharmaceutical development research. The research assistant 2 will have quality control and quality assurance responsibilities in the laboratory. This position will work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Plan and carry out diagnostic testing and in vitro and in vivo experiments in accordance with general plans and specific standard operating procedures. Process and read diagnostic mycology culture samples. Assist in performing DNA sequencing to identify organisms. Perform susceptibility testing and a variety of other in vitro experiments including time kill and agar diffusion assays. Perform basic and fluorescent microscopy for morphological evaluation of organisms. (30%)

Conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project to characterize novel antimicrobial compounds. (15%)

Collect and analyze data, prepare graphs, charts and slides from experimental data for purposes of reporting. Perform analysis which may include quantification of antimicrobial effectiveness, range of spectrum and comparisons with other antimicrobials. Assist in maintaining a database tracking biospecimens to be analyzed and results. (15%)

Oversee inventory of reagents and supplies, assist with media preparation and re-stocking laboratory supplies as needed, prepare solutions, and maintain laboratory equipment. Perform quality control and maintenance checks as assigned. (15%)

Prepare shipments of UN3373, UN1845, and exempt specimens according to IATA training. Monitor inventory to assist with media preparation and re-stocking laboratory supplies as needed. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Assist in developing improved techniques, methods or procedures related to both experiments and quality control and maintenance activities in the laboratory. (5%)

Train new staff regarding standard laboratory policies and procedures (SOPs) as well as basic microbiology, molecular biology and animal research techniques. (5%)

Perform other duties as assigned. (5%)

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with supervisor and lab members to discuss research and maintain workflow.

University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information and collaborate on projects.

External: Limited contact with vendors to exchange information and coordinate tasks such as equipment certification, preventive maintenance and repairs.

Students: Occasional contact with student employees for direct observations and to explain policies and procedures.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. Train new staff and interacts with students regarding policies and procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree and 1 to 3 years of related experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience required. Prior bloodborne pathogen and HIPAA training preferred.

REQUIRED SKILLS

Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within the microbiology and/or molecular biology field.

Willingness and ability to rely on and follow instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.

Ability to operate laboratory equipment.

Ability to meet consistent attendance.

Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.

Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear and maintain a high standard of personal cleanliness to protect the health of the animals.

Previous experience working with animals preferred

Strong microbiology and/or molecular biology skills (isolation and cultivation of organisms, morphological, physiological and molecular-based identification using selective growth media, microscopic evaluation, DNA extraction, PCR amplification and Sanger and/or Next Generation sequencing).

Strong organization skills and good habit of maintaining a clean lab working environment. Ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and proven ability to successfully follow-through on assigned projects.

Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills and good interpersonal skills with the ability to work and communicate with various individuals within and external to the University.

Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team (must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self-starter).

Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office. Experience in database data entry and management preferred.

Must have the ability to maintain meticulous, complete, and easily retrievable laboratory data.

Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate sound judgment and good decision-making.

Must demonstrate flexibility and ability to work under pressure; must be able and willing to work in a fast-paced, changing environment, and conform to shifting priorities, demands and timelines.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment. The laboratory is an open floor plan with abundant bench space for experiments. Ample desk space with computers are also provided. Expected to be conscientious of hazards of different chemicals used as well as animal samples. Required personal protective equipment includes a laboratory coat, gloves suitable for the types of organisms, chemicals and reagents handled and protective eyewear as appropriate. Ergonomic concerns include regular and repetitive use of a keyboard and pipettes.

Please Apply directly with resume or contact Sandra Madden, Legacy Staffing 216-587-5510

Apply In person

Legacy Staffing

9511 Vista Way

Garfield Hts, Oh 44124

216-587-5510