Part-Time Research Assistant (Resch Lab)

University of Iowa; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

University of Iowa is seeking a part-time researcher to conduct cutting-edge studies on the molecular mechanisms of obesity and cancer. The role includes lab management and assisting experiments in cultured cells and mice using molecular and biochemical techniques.

Appointment is for roughly one year with potential renewal; 15–20 hours per week. The candidate will perform literature review, manage data, assist in protocol compliance, and contribute to manuscripts and reports.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a biomedical field or related science.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience with Microsoft Office applications.
• Previous animal research experience in a biomedical lab.
• Familiar with Office of Animal Resources procedures and regulations.
• Ability to work independently with reliable time management.

Responsibilities

• Perform cutting-edge research on obesity and cancer using animal and cell culture models.
• Read protocols, set up experiments, and ensure fidelity to procedures.
• Collect, record, and summarize data; assist in preparing reports and manuscripts.
• Assist with IRB/ACURF submissions and monitor project progress and safety.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment; assist with supplies procurement.
• Train and supervise students or junior staff as skills develop.

Skills

Lab management

Molecular biology

Cell culture

Animal research

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in biomedical field

Tools

PCR

Microsoft Office

Job description

BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITY

To conduct cutting-edge research focused on the molecular mechanisms of obesity and cancer. The candidate will be responsible for lab management and assist in performing experiments in cultured cells and mice using molecular, cellular, and biochemical techniques. This appointment is for a limited duration, anticipated length of one year with the possibility of renewal for a second year. Part-time work of 15 - 20 hours per week.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Research: Perform research activities based upon protocols developed by other research staff or principal investigator of the research project. Read and review articles as directed. As individual skills develop, analyze literature to develop hypotheses for discussion with other researchers or principal investigator.

Experiment, Investigations, Evaluations: Read and understand protocols. Arrange and plan daily activities to prepare for research protocols. Set up and operate research materials or equipment. Perform procedures assuring fidelity to protocols. Recruit, consent and enroll research subjects; perform varied tasks in the research environment (lab, clinic, field, classroom). Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines. Collect, record, and consolidate data as directed by the Principal Investigator. Track progress of research activities. Adhere to Quality Assurance protocols to maintain validity and integrity of research data. As individual skills develop; troubleshoot, analyze, and propose modifications to protocols; perform complex techniques per protocol; test and evaluate current procedures; develop and implement procedures for monitoring data integrity; may present results at team meetings.

Collect, Analyze and Summarize Data; Prepare Reports; Contribute to Manuscripts, Publications: Collect and track data, perform data entry for reports and maintain records of methods used. Prepare materials for reports. As skills develop, analyze data. Prepare bibliographies and abstracts for publications. May present results/findings at team and departmental meetings.

Administrative and Project Management: Assist with IRB, ACURF or similar protocol submissions, if applicable. Track various indicators of project progress and summarize in reports to the research team. Assist in documenting compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines.

Facilities and Equipment Management: Assist in the preparation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory and facility equipment. Assist with procurement of supplies and materials. May initiate purchasing requests, monitor accounts/expenditures; reconcile statements.

Supervision/Staffing: As skills develop, may train, provide directions, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling of students and newer employees.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A bachelor's degree ina biomedical related field, animal science, veterinary technology or other related science program or equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible experience in an animal caretaking or research laboratory environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as interpersonal relationship skills.
• Experience with Microsoft Office.
• Previousanimal research experience in a biomedical laboratory with hands-on research.
• Familiarwith procedures and regulations of the Office of Animal Resources.
• Abilityto work independently while being reliable and efficient with time management.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous experience with working with animals.
• IACUC knowledge and familiarity with up-to-date compliance rules and regulations.
• Experiencewith DNA techniques:DNA isolation and PCR

Contact: Kyle Fountain Email: [e-mail]