Research Specialist

Princeton University; Princeton (NJ); On-site; USD 41,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Princeton University’s Department of Molecular Biology invites applications for a Research Specialist to join the Burdine laboratory. The Burdine group studies zebrafish models of organ formation, left-right patterning, and heart morphogenesis, exploring cilia signaling and birth defects.

This is a 2-year term position with potential project leadership based on experience. The role involves DNA/RNA prep, cloning, PCR, protein work, zebrafish embryo injections, maintaining strains, and overall

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or ≥3 years related experience.
• At least 1 year of undergraduate or postgraduate research in a lab.
• Ability to think creatively to solve problems.
• Proficient with molecular biology techniques.
• Strong computer skills.
• Good safety practices and safe conduct history.
• High initiative; able to work independently and in a team.
• Excellent communication, organization, and time management.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments and assays following standard or detailed protocol and document variations.
• Collect and analyze data; perform quality control and discuss results with supervisor.
• Validate studies based on standard protocols within agreed timelines.
• Coordinate multiple assignments or a multi-faceted project.
• Help recover mutant alleles from a genetic screen.
• Mentor and train new lab members on standard protocols.
• Maintain lab organization and inventory.
• Ensure functionality and maintenance of instrumentation and reagents.
• Maintain assigned zebrafish strains.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Molecular biology

Safety practices

Problem solving

Zebrafish experience

Independence

Computer skills

Lab organization

Education

Bachelor's degree or 3+ years lab experience

Tools

DNA/RNA prep

PCR

DNA cloning

Zebrafish maintenance

Job description

Overview

Princeton University's Department of Molecular Biology seeks applicants for a Research Specialist position to join the Burdine laboratory.

The Burdine lab studies organ formation and patterning in development using zebrafish as a model system. Our work explores left-right asymmetries and heart morphogenesis, cilia related signaling, and signaling dysregulation to better understand the etiology of structural birth anomalies including congenital heart defects.

We seek a highly motivated individual to work closely with member of the Burdine lab. The ability to communicate effectively, work well in a team setting, and a strong desire to learn new methods are required. The applicant will interact with members of the group assisting with DNA/RNA preparation, DNA cloning, PCR, protein biochemistry, injecting zebrafish embryos, maintaining zebrafish strains, and general lab organization. Depending on the experience of the applicant, the chance to lead a specific project will be considered. Experience with zebrafish or other animal models is preferred, but not required.

The position offers an excellent opportunity to participate in a dynamic research environment in an exciting field of research, with opportunities to represent the group at local and national conferences. Your work will be central to several major research projects ongoing in the lab. This position will allow for professional advancement, skill development, and co-authorship on high-impact publications. This is a 2-year term position.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments and/or assays following standard or detailed protocol; identifying and documenting variations that may affect the validity of the experiment.


• Collection and analyze data. Perform quality control, monitor data for accuracy, and discusses results within agreed upon timelines with supervisor.


• Validate and conduct studies based upon standard experimental protocols within the agreed upon timelines with supervisor/technical manager.


• Demonstrated management success in coordinating and/or conducting multiple, concurrent assignments or a multi-faceted project.


• Help recover mutant alleles generated in a genetic screen


• Assist in mentoring and training new lab members on standard experimental protocols


• Help maintain lab organization and inventory


• Ensure functionality and maintenance of instrumentation and/or reagent stocks


• Help maintain assigned zebrafish strains

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in the biological sciences, bioengineering or related field OR ≥3 years of related experience.


• 1+ years of undergraduate or postgraduate research experience in a laboratory setting.


• Ability to think creatively to solve problems.


• Proficient with molecular biology techniques.


• Strong computer skills desired.


• Established understanding of good safety practices and a demonstrated history of safe conduct.


• High level of initiative and motivation; ability to work independently and with a team.


• Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills


• Experience with zebrafish or animals models preferred, but not required.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Standard Weekly Hours

36.25

Eligible for Overtime

Yes

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Probationary Period

90 days

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)

No

Physical Capacity Exam Required

No

Valid Driver's License Required

No

Salary Range

$41,000 to $60,000