Laboratory Research Assistant

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Job description

Department

PSYCHOLOGICAL & BRAIN SCIENCES (BL-PSY-IUBLA)

Department Information

Interdisciplinary approach + Innovation + Collaboration = The Gill Center

The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science at Indiana University provides the field of neuroscience with a unique platform for innovation. Powered by the extraordinary vision and commitment of Linda and Jack Gill, together with the College of Arts and Sciences (The College), the Gill Center brings together world-class scientists and state-of-the-art facilities in an atmosphere of unimpeded experimentation. The result is real and rapid progress on understanding issues such as pain, addiction, stress, and dementia.

The Gill Chairs, recruited from outside the university in order to promote the expansion of IU's neuroscience community, are selected not only for their individual records of excellence, but also for their ability to contribute to and influence ongoing center research. More information can be found here.

The College values diversity, equity, and inclusion as a core strength and essential element in the success of its educational mission. For full diversity statement, click here.

Job Summary

The Laboratory Research Assistant in this role is expected to carry out experiments designed by the PI and research associates in the Gill Center for Biomolecular Science. Research projects in the lab focus on the endogenous cannabinoid system, its role in health and disease, and how the constituents of cannabis (THC and cannabidiol) interact with endocannabinoids to produce their effects (both beneficial and detrimental). The Laboratory Research Assistant will consult with other research associates regarding appropriate lab procedures. In addition to experimental work, the individual hired for this role will be responsible for routine lab maintenance.

Department-Specific Responsibilities:

• Maintenance of the mouse colony. Consists of setting up and maintaining breeding and non-breeding cages, husbandry (mating, checking for plugs, weaning, and tissue sampling (ear and tail snips) for genotyping), and maintaining colony records.
• Antibody and protein purification. Consists of affinity purification of fusion proteins from bacterial cultures and immune (rabbit, goat and guinea pig) serum, and screening of purified antibodies by immunocytochemistry of cultured cells expressing various proteins of interest.
• General laboratory management duties. Orders supplies and reagents, maintains reagent and supply inventory, assists in preparing IACUC protocols, and assists with light equipment maintenance.
• Keeps abreast of best practices to recommend policies and procedures that deliver a quality program experience.

General Responsibilities:

• Responsible for the initiation, monitoring, completion, and reporting of routine to moderately complex research studies.
• Organizes and implements data review and analysis.
• Oversees the proper handling of laboratory specimens including processes, shipping, storage, and documentation and transfer to designated central laboratories.
• Conducts data quality assurance practices.
• Prepares research summaries and assists in progress report development.
• Maintains laboratory work areas and supply inventory.

Qualifications

EDUCATION

Required

• Bachelor's degree in a science or health-related discipline.

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in a biological field.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Preferred

• 2 years of experience in a laboratory setting.

SKILLS

• Proficient communication skills.
• Maintains a high degree of professionalism.
• Demonstrated time management and priority setting skills.
• Demonstrates a high commitment to quality.
• Possesses flexibility to work in a fast paced, dynamic environment.
• Highly thorough and dependable.

Working Conditions / Demands

The role regularly requires the ability to effectively communicate. The role frequently requires the ability to move about the work environment and to position oneself to operate laboratory equipment effectively. The role requires the ability to move objects weighing up to 25 pounds and will occasionally work near moving mechanical parts. The role requires the ability to analyze results and to maintain technical accuracy. Visual strain can occur if extended time is spent on a microscope. Certain experiments require exact timing. Position entails working with animals and potential exposure to animal allergens may occur. The person in this role must be able to perform the essential functions with or without an accommodation.

Work Location

The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Biomolecular Science

Multidisciplinary Science Building II 110

702 North Walnut Grove Avenue

Bloomington, Indiana 47405

Job Classification

Career Level: Intermediate

FLSA: Nonexempt

Job Function: Research

Job Family: Laboratory Research

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Posting Disclaimer

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there may be differences in the working conditions as advertised in our standard job postings (e.g., the ability to travel from one campus to another, etc.). If you are invited for an interview, please discuss your questions or concerns regarding the working conditions at that time.

This posting is scheduled to close at 11:59 pm EST on the advertised Close Date. This posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University, but will remain open for a minimum of 5 business days. To guarantee full consideration, please submit your application within 5 business days of the Posted Date.

If you wish to include a cover letter, you may include it with your resume when uploading attachments.

New employees will be provided with information regarding Indiana University's COVID-19 vaccine policy, which includes the opportunity to request an exemption. To learn more, view our COVID-19 vaccine information page.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and a provider of ADA services. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual qualifications. Indiana University prohibits discrimination based on age, ethnicity, color, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status. Indiana University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its educational programs and activities, including employment and admission, as required by Title IX. Questions or complaints regarding Title IX may be referred to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights or the university Title IX Coordinator. See Indiana University's Notice of Non-Discrimination here which includes contact information.

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