Research Associate - Anesthesia, Obal's Lab

University of Iowa; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An academic institution in Iowa City is looking for a full-time Research Associate to join a cardiovascular research team. Responsibilities include working with patient-specific stem cells, performing experiments, and maintaining detailed documentation. Candidates should have at least a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and prior experience in human cell culture techniques. Strong organizational abilities and communication skills are essential for success in this role. The position is on campus and offers a professional and scientific appointment.

Qualifications

• One year of related experience is required.
• Knowledge in molecular biology is necessary.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments.

Responsibilities

• Conduct induced pluripotent stem cell reprogramming and culture.
• Perform differentiation experiments using human iPSCs.
• Maintain and document laboratory operations.

Skills

Human cell culture techniques

Genomic and protein expression techniques

Excellent record-keeping

Organizational skills

Ability to work independently

Ability to communicate effectively

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related scientific field

Tools

PCR

Gel electrophoresis

Job description

The Department of Anesthesia is seeking a full-time Research Associate to participate in a cardiovascular research project. The research primarily utilizes patient‑specific induced pluripotent stem cell‑derived cardiomyocytes to model cardiac disorders. The successful candidate must have experience in human cell culture techniques, genomic and protein expression molecular techniques with an excellent record‑keeping ability and organization skills. Prior experience with induced pluripotent stem cell research is highly desired, but not a requirement. A minimal part of the project will include animal experiments and prior experience working with mice is desired. The candidate must exhibit a great deal of independence and be able to independently design experiments, carry them out and assist with analyzing and presenting data.

Position Responsibilities

• Induced pluripotent stem cell reprogramming and culture.
• Cardiomyocyte and endothelial differentiation experiments using human iPSCs.
• Perform cardiomyocyte and endothelial cell phenotype and molecular evaluation protocols.
• Subcutaneous injection of drugs in pregnant mice.
• Plan and perform existing experiments in support of ongoing research projects based on extensive knowledge of scientific theory. Interpret and perform analyses of results and their possible implications.
• Discuss issues and considerations for using different types of research approaches.
• Analyze and interpret literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and related research, interpret new findings and analyze their validity.
• Demonstrate in depth knowledge of and offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols. Advise on advanced research analysis methods.
• Maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Design, write, and publish findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals. Edit and revise as needed.
• Coordinate and evaluate general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and coordinate lab support when required.
• Other duties as assigned.

Position And Application Details

In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a “Relevant File” to the submission:

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter

For a full job description, please send an e‑mail to the contact listed below.

About The Department Of Anesthesia

The Department of Anesthesia provides exceptional patient experiences and a positive work environment through excellence, compassionate care, continuous improvement, innovative research, and collaborative learning.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in related scientific field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Experience Requirements

• One year of related experience is required.
• Extensive understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes. Edit and revise as needed.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

Desired Qualifications

• A Bachelor of Science in molecular biology or related discipline or equivalent experience
• Two year’s experience
• Technical writing experience in SOP’s, protocols, and reports
• Proficiency with human cell culture techniques, experience with iPSC is highly valued
• Experience with laboratory animal experiments, in particular, s.c. injection of drugs
• Experience with tissue homogenization and single cell preparation from various tissues, primarily cardiomyocytes
• Proficiency with basic molecular biology techniques, such as gel electrophoresis, PCR, and recombinant DNA techniques
• Routinely perform cardiomyocyte and endothelial cell differentiation experiments using human iPSCs
• Possess initiative, ability to multi‑task and a desire to acquire new technical skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members and collaborators
• Experimental design, execution of plan and presentation of data to team
• Utilization of good documentation practices

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 for calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.

Successful candidates will be required to self‑disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification.

This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.

Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.

For additional questions, please contact Joseph Mulangaliro at [e-mail].

Additional Information

• Classification Title: Research Associate
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full‑time
• Work Modality Options: On Campus

Compensation

• Pay Level: 4A

Contact Information

• Organization: Healthcare
• Contact Name: Joseph Mulangaliro
• Contact Email: [e-mail]