Research Assistant (1/2)

About the Role

The Research Assistant (Staff Research Associate I) position is in a highly dynamic research lab focused on understanding the molecular and immunological mechanisms that establish maternal–fetal immune tolerance and how these mechanisms are altered in pregnancy complications. The incumbent at the entry level (SRA 1) will perform research experiments under the direction and training of the Principal Investigator and senior laboratory members. Research in the laboratory combines biochemistry, protein engineering, immunology, and experimental models to investigate antibody–antigen interactions and mechanisms of immune tolerance.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform research experiments under the direction and training of the Principal Investigator and senior laboratory members.
• Initially receive training in relevant laboratory techniques and, with increasing proficiency, will take on greater responsibility for independent experiments and research projects.
• Experimental planning and execution.
• Data collection and analysis.
• Maintenance of detailed laboratory records.
• Presentation of research progress at laboratory meetings.
• Present research progress every 3 months.
• Conform to irregular work hours that may be needed (weekends, holidays, and so on).
• Act as liaison between the research team and the clinical staff (if needed).
• Collect placenta tissue from various sites and prepare the tissue for experiments (if needed).
• Preparation of buffers and reagents.
• Maintenance of laboratory stocks and experimental animals.
• Assistance with laboratory equipment and organization.
• Other research-related duties as assigned by the PI and senior laboratory personnel.

Approaches & Technologies

• Programmable protein display.
• Molecular cloning.
• Recombinant protein and antibody expression and purification.
• Biochemical and cell-based assays.
• Next-generation sequencing.
• Flow cytometry.
• Mouse models of pregnancy and immunity.

Qualifications

• BA/BS in a related science and knowledge of, or experience with, the basic techniques or methods required by the position; and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Ability to work independently as well as work in a team.
• Self-motivated and organized.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience/proficiency with coding languages such as Python and/or R.