SEARCH CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

POSITION SUMMARY: 

We are seeking a highly motivated and goal-oriented individual to join our lab focused on the identification genetic factors and the development of novel therapeutics for ALS. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease or Motor Neuron Disease, is a devastating neurodegenerative disease that results in the loss of movement and eventual death typically within 2-5 years. To date, there are no effective treatments for ALS.

The candidate, under the direction of Dr. John Landers, will be working as a member of a multidisciplinary team environment within the Department of Neurology. Their focus of their efforts will be two-fold. (1) Towards the develop therapeutics for ALS through a combination of innovative antisense oligonucleotide and viral vector approaches; (2) Towards the development of a genomic repository consisting of whole genome sequencing data for over 20,000 ALS patients.  

The Research Associate will closely interact with other lab members towards the design, organization and execution of experiments towards accomplishing these goals. The ideal candidate will require a strong work ethic with a background in molecular biology and genetics. Experience in laboratory techniques, including tissue culture, PCR, and Western Blots, along with strong record keeping and organizational skills, are required. Experience in bioinformatics is preferred.

https://www.umassmed.edu/landerslab/

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator or Designee, the Research Associate I performs a variety of complex research experiments.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform laboratory experiments and may be responsible for a single research project
• Utilize all software relevant to experiment and equipment used
• Interpret data, form conclusions and decide on next steps under the direction of the PI or designee
• Maintain accurate records, may modify protocols with the approval of the PI or designee
• Review literature, publications and grants relevant to assigned projects
• Record results according to established lab, sponsor & university protocol
• Assist with performing data analysis and/or mathematical computations
• Maintain a detailed lab notebook according to lab practice
• Present findings at lab/group meetings
• Monitor laboratory supply levels and order as noted
• Prepare and label buffers, media, solutions, etc.
• Assist with and comply with all safety regulation and infection control standards
• Train on IACUC, IRB, EHS, Radiation safety protocols
• Comply with all applicable state, federal university, and sponsor policies and agreements
• Provide support with identifying problems and challenges, propose resolutions, implement appropriate solutions
• Provide support with drafting standard operation procedures in compliance to EHS regulation specific for the lab
• Perform other duties as required

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors degree in Biological or Natural Science, or equivalent experience
• Basic understanding of lab safety and protocols
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products
• Ability to analyze data in a quantitative and objective manner.
• Ability to work in a team environment

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, or designee

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: 

May functionally supervise Lab Technicians and Aides

ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

Wet chemistry laboratory, and may require appropriate contact with biohazards, radionuclides, toxins, animals, and human specimens.